Brushing 101: Protecting Your Oral Health
Brushing your teeth regularly is one of the best ways to protect your oral health, as it removes all debris from your mouth and ensures that your teeth are being properly cleaned. Regular brushing can also help combat bad breath and gum disease.
However, brushing the right way and ensuring you’re brushing every tooth is just as important as how often you brush.
Starting With the Right Toothbrush
Before you can start brushing your teeth the right way,you have to have the right tools. Here are some tips to help find the right toothbrush for your smile:
Manual or Electric?
There is no significant difference in effectiveness between manual and electric brushes. However, choosing between these two may come down to preference — where electric brushes may help your child be more enthusiastic about brushing.
Rotation oscillation toothbrushes, on the other hand, have been found to be more effective than manual toothbrushes. This is because their bristles go side-to-side and back-and-forth, scrubbing and polishing hard-to-reach areas.
ADA Seal of Approval
These brushes must go through screening processes to prove that they are beneficial for your child’s smile. If you’re taking your little one to the store to pick out their new brush, make sure whichever they pick has this seal!
For Children
Smaller Toothbrush Head
A smaller toothbrush head will fit better in your little one’s mouth, helping them get in small nooks and crannies and clean each tooth. The next time you buy your child a new toothbrush, look for a brush that is marked as a child’s or pediatric brush.
Soft-Bristled Brush
Depending on how vigorously your child brushes their teeth, a hard-bristled brush can damage their gums. When selecting a new toothbrush for your child, be sure to choose a brush with soft bristles.
Quicks Steps for Proper Brushing
Now that you’ve got your tool in hand — it’s time to get to brushing! You should brush your teeth 2-3 times per day — in the morning and at night time. Some patients choose to brush after every meal.
Use these tips to make sure you’re brushing properly:
- Brush for about two minutes (hint: play a song you love as a timer.)
- Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle.
- Use ADA-approved toothpaste.
- Use short, circular strokes.
- Brush the outside of your teeth from the front to back molars.
- Flip your toothbrush to get the inside and back of your teeth.
- Don’t forget to brush your tongue!
Proper hygiene habits aren’t enough to keep your smile healthy. To protect your oral health, contact our team at Frisco's Dentists today to book your next cleaning.