Do You Brush Your Teeth Well Enough?

Many Cumberland dentist patients don’t realize they are not taking care of their teeth well enough until it causes a dental issue. Your oral hygiene depends on your frequent and correct brushing and flossing. There are a few common mistakes that can be fixed easily. Here are the most vital pointers to remember when asking yourself, “Do I brush my teeth well?” 

Brush for the Full Length of Time

The ADA and our Cumberland dentist both recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes. That’s only thirty seconds per quadrant of your mouth. If two minutes sounds like longer than your typical brushing session, consider buying an electric toothbrush with a timer. This useful tool can help keep you accountable to your smile. For kids who may not be able to count that high, try playing a song every time they brush. There are also plenty of apps that can help them brush for the full length of time.  

Gentle Circles

If you’ve been brushing your teeth from side to side, you’ve been missing some nooks and crannies in your mouth. It’s recommended to brush your teeth in small circles to reach the entire surface area of your teeth. It’s best to brush your teeth gently, with little pressure, to protect your gums.  

New Toothbrush

Old toothbrushes are breeding grounds for bacteria. Also, the bristles on your toothbrush will wear down over time, and won’t be as effective at reaching your entire surface area. Our Cumberland dentist recommends replacing your toothbrush every three months to solve both of these problems. We may have a new toothbrush for you during your next exam! 

Brush and Floss Every Day

Remember to brush and floss your teeth every day. There is no reason you should “forget” to brush. If you choose sugary or acidic drinks and foods, brush again. Cavities love when you are lazy! Don’t give them a fighting chance. By keeping your teeth and gums clean, you are keeping your smile healthy.  

During your next appointment, we’d be happy to offer additional tips for your kids. Hop over to our Facebook page to get additional tips for yourself too! How can we keep you smiling?