You brush your teeth every day (we hope!), and it’s not that complicated, right? Wrong! There are actually some crucial rules to follow to keep those pearly whites sparkling day in and day out. Being mindful of bad habits and perfecting your brushing techniques will leave your mouth happy and healthy for years to come.

Let’s read about the important “do’s” and “don’ts” when it comes to healthy teeth brushing.

Healthy Brushing DO’s:

  • Brush morning and night – Whether you’re a night owl or an early morning riser, it’s important that you incorporate brushing into both your morning and night routines! If you’re a late night snacker it’s even more important since sleeping increases your risk for cavities.
  • Use proper techniques – Make sure to tilt your brush at a 45-degree angle against your gum line and continue brushing in small, soft circles. This gentle technique is proven to remove the most plaque!
  • Brush long enough – A great brush takes about two minutes. Make sure you’re brushing for the right amount of time by listening to your favorite song or simply by setting a timer on your phone.
  • Opt for electric – Choosing an electric or battery operated toothbrush can further reduce plaque and the chances of getting gum disease (gingivitis) more so than a traditional toothbrush. Electric brushes are also great for those with arthritis that have troubles brushing effectively.
  • Toss your toothbrush – The ADA (American Dental Association) recommends you replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Over these months, the bristles on the brush wear down and become less effective in removing bacteria and plaque on our teeth. Also, if you get sick make sure to swap out your toothbrush right afterward to avoid any germs and risk catching the illness again!
  • Store it right – To keep your toothbrush clean, always rinse it thoroughly with water after brushing. Then, store it in an upright position to air dry until its next use. Covering toothbrushes in closed containers can potentially encourage the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast.

Healthy Brushing DON’Ts:

  • Avoid brushing right after eating – Wait at least 30 minutes after you’ve eaten to brush your teeth. By brushing too soon you can actually damage your enamel since eating foods puts it in a much weaker state. Instead, rinse your mouth with water or chew sugarless gum to increase saliva production and help wash away any bacteria.
  • Don’t forget your tongue! – If you aren’t brushing your tongue, start now! 90% of bad breath is due to a dirty tongue. It’s very important to either brush your tongue daily or invest in a quality tongue scraper.
  • Stop the aggression – Avoid hard bristles and stick to only soft-bristled toothbrushes. Use soft strokes rather than aggressive hard strokes as it can cause gum recession which exposes the root of the tooth. It’s very painful and causes unwanted sensitivity.
  • Don’t ignore the dentist – Even if you practice incredible tooth brushing skills regularly, biannual visits to your dentist are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. Dentists have tools and training you simply can’t compete with at home. Professional checkups, cleanings, and X-rays will keep your smile shining and help avoid any future issues.

If you’re not following these helpful tips, make sure to make adjustments to your oral health care routine to get on the right track.

Simply Beautiful Smiles wants to ensure you’re getting the best oral health care possible. Our highly skilled team of dental professionals not only uses state-of-the-art-treatments but also takes the time to build long-lasting relationships with each and every patient that walks through our doors. To schedule an appointment or consultation with our incredible staff, contact us today!