The first step in taking good care of your oral health is learning how to brush your teeth properly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 in 4 adults in the United States have untreated dental issues and nearly half of all adults above the age of 30 show signs of gum disease.
For any dental issues, you can consult Dr. Fisk, Dr. Iskol, and Dr. Podebryi at Above and Beyond Dentistry in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Until then, here are a few tips on how to brush your teeth properly.
ADA Recommendation
The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes. The ADA also recommends you use products that have the ADA seal of acceptance for safety and effectiveness.
Why Is It Important to Brush Properly?
You need to brush your teeth regularly and properly to help prevent cavities and plaque buildup on your teeth that could lead to infections and gum disease. Brushing also helps prevent bad breath and keeps your gums healthy.
How Can You Brush Properly?
Here are a few simple tips to brush the right way:
- Toothbrush
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent gum bleeding and choose a size that fits your mouth properly so that you can reach all the areas. Remember to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months.
- Toothpaste
With so many available options, it has become difficult to choose a toothpaste brand. So, how do you know which one to take home?
When choosing a toothpaste, we recommend you select one that contains fluoride and has the seal of acceptance from the American Dental Association.
- Technique
Brushing too softly will not properly clean your teeth. At the same time, brushing it too vigorously can damage your gums.
For best results, keep your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and move it back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes. Make sure you properly brush all the surfaces of the teeth. Tilt your brush and make several up-and-down strokes to clean the inside surfaces.