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Oral hygiene is an integral part of your overall well-being. Cleaning your teeth properly means removing food particles and bacteria that would otherwise build up over time. Not doing so can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
While many people have a regular oral hygiene routine, they may need better tools or techniques. Brushing your teeth with poor form can reduce the benefits of brushing.
In this article, we’ll talk about how to brush your teeth properly. We’ll also discuss other oral hygiene tips.
To brush your teeth effectively, follow these steps:1
Electric and manual toothbrushes can effectively remove plaque and clean your teeth. However, electric toothbrushes make brushing easier because they do some of the “technique work” for you.
An electric brush can also improve brushing time since it typically has built-in timers.
Electric toothbrushes are beneficial for people who:
If you choose an electric toothbrush, your overall routine will be similar. But your technique will be more straightforward in the following ways:
Be sure to use an electric toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. You should also read the instructions for your electric toothbrush before using it.
The ADA recommends brushing for at least two minutes twice daily. This brushing time means spending at least 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth (top left, top right, bottom right, bottom left).
Some people struggle to brush consistently for the recommended amount of time. If you want to ensure you spend enough time brushing, set a timer. Many electric toothbrushes have built-in timers.
Dentists generally recommend brushing after flossing. With plaque and food debris out of the way, your toothbrush and toothpaste can reach between your teeth better.
If you brush and then floss, don’t worry—it’s still good that you’re flossing. But try to change your routine's order to more effectively prevent food and plaque from remaining in the crevices of your teeth.
Even if you brush routinely, you may need to include some critical practices that help keep your teeth clean. Here are some common tooth-brushing mistakes to avoid:
A good toothbrush, quality toothpaste, and proper brushing technique are essential, but they are only one part of a proper oral hygiene routine. To ensure your teeth stay clean and healthy, do the following in addition to brushing correctly:
Brushing your teeth is vital to keeping your mouth healthy and clean. Use proper technique to ensure you get the full benefits of tooth brushing. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle, and brush firmly but gently.
It’s also essential to use a soft-bristled brush that won’t irritate your gums or harm your enamel. A toothpaste containing fluoride or hydroxyapatite will also help remineralize your teeth, fighting cavities.
Aside from regular brushing, you should also floss once daily and see your dentist for routine cleanings twice a year.
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