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.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with practical strategies to ensure everyone in the family is brushing properly and being consistent with it.
Step by Step Instructions on How to Brush Your Teeth
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.
To brush your teeth effectively, follow these steps:
- Wet your toothbrush with water — Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush, as stiff bristles can damage your enamel and irritate your gums.
- Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste — A toothpaste containing fluoride or hydroxyapatite will be best for remineralizing your teeth.
- Put your toothbrush up to your teeth at a 45-degree angle — Press firmly but gently, moving the brush in short circular strokes along the gum line.
- Spend 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth — Be sure to brush the back surfaces of your teeth as well. If done correctly, you should spend a total of 2 minutes brushing your teeth.
- Gently brush your tongue — Bacteria can build up on your tongue just as they do on your teeth.
- Spit out the toothpaste and rinse your mouth — Be sure to rinse your brush as well, then place it upright in a container or holder.
Should You Brush Before or After Flossing?
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.out of the way, your toothbrush and toothpaste can reach between your teeth better.
What are Common Tooth Brushing Mistakes?
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:
- Using a hard-bristle toothbrush — Soft bristles are better than medium and stiff bristles. They’re less likely to damage your enamel or irritate your gums.
- Not brushing long enough — Spend at least 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth. Using a timer or an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer can help.
- Using excessive or insufficient toothpaste — It’s best to use an amount about the size of a pea.
- Not brushing twice a day — Brushing 30 minutes after breakfast and before bed is recommended. Otherwise, it will be easier for plaque to accumulate on your teeth.
- Brushing too hard — Like using a hard-bristled brush, brushing too hard can damage your gums and tooth enamel.
- Failure to reach all tooth surfaces — This habit allows plaque to continue building up in the neglected areas, which could lead to cavities or gum disease.
Why Should You Establish a Brushing Schedule?
Tooth brushing should be a non-negotiable part of your family's daily routine. Once everyone’s used to a schedule, it’s easier to stick to the routine and maintain consistency.
Here are some of our tips for establishing a brushing schedule:
- Set specific times — Choose two consistent times each day for brushing, such as after breakfast and before bed. This helps create predictability and makes it easier to remember.
- Visual reminders — For younger children, a visual schedule with pictures or a colorful chart can be a helpful reminder.
- Make it a family affair — Brushing your teeth together not only sets a good example but also creates a sense of accountability and shared responsibility.
We also recommend setting a timer for two minutes to ensure everyone is brushing for the recommended duration. You can even find fun toothbrushing timers online or through mobile apps.
Letting your child choose their own toothbrush with their favorite character can also make them more excited about brushing.
How to Stay Motivated and Accountable in Your Dental Care
Staying motivated and accountable is crucial for maintaining a consistent brushing routine, not just for kids but for adults too.
Here are some strategies we recommend to stay on track:
- Reward system — Create a reward chart for the whole family. Each time someone brushes consistently for a week, they earn a small reward or privilege.
- Lead by example — Children often mimic their parents' behavior. Make sure you're prioritizing your own oral hygiene and brushing consistently.
- Regular dental check-ups — This provides professional accountability and reinforces the importance of good oral hygiene.
- Focus on the benefits — Remind yourself and your family of the benefits of brushing, such as a healthy smile, fresh breath, and preventing future dental problems.
By implementing these strategies and making brushing a fun experience, you can create a consistent brushing routine that sets your family up for healthy smiles.
