Your parents and your dentist have been telling you to brush your teeth for your whole life, but many people have never been shown the best ways to brush. At-home oral care is so important towards avoiding serious oral and overall health issues, so taking the time to do it right can make a huge difference! Here's some tips on how you should be brushing at home:
- Timing: Tons of adults today don't brush for the recommended amount of time each morning and evening. You should be spending a full two minutes brushing each time to ensure that your teeth are completely clean.
- Flossing: Flossing shouldn't be a weekly routine- it needs to be done once a day, along with your brushing. Brushing alone just can't remove food particles from the crevices between your teeth, and this can create plaque buildup, which can lead to gum disease.
- Top teeth first: Clean your top teeth first, moving from the outer surface to the inner surface. Then, move to your lower teeth.
- Tongue: It's common for people to skip brushing the tongue, but you can prevent bad breath by thoroughly brushing your tongue along with your teeth each day.
- Toothpaste: There are so many options available today for toothpaste. The best way to find the right toothpaste for your needs is to consult with your dentist. There are options for patients with all kinds of sensitivity and conditions.
- Toothbrush replacement: Another common mistake is not replacing your toothbrush soon enough. While some toothbrushes have indicators for when they need to be replaced, you should keep an eye on when your brush starts to show any wear. Typically it's best to replace your brush once every three months to ensure you get a good cleaning each time.
Dentist Stuart FL
Taking the time to brush and floss correctly can make a huge difference in your oral health, and it helps prevent large issues from arising. If you have any questions, or if you'd like to schedule an appointment with our team, contact our office today for more information! Our staff is always happy to answer any questions that you may have, and we look forward to seeing you.