Patients come into our office, often wondering why they still get cavities or notice recession. They frequently tell us they brush, and don’t understand why it isn’t working. While brushing is important, what you use to brush you use to brush your teeth and how your brush is also important.
What Are You Using to Brush Your Teeth?
The bristles on your toothbrush may actually be wearing down your tooth enamel or be too harsh on your gums. Dental professionals recommend that a toothbrush with soft bristles is the best choice. It will effectively clean the teeth while keeping the enamel and gums intact. If you notice enamel wear, gum recession, or tooth discoloration, you need to use a different brush. This can also apply to using your toothbrush too long. Swap out your toothbrush with the soft bristles every three months.
How Are You Brushing?
There is a right way and a wrong way to brush your teeth. Don’t rush when brushing, nor brush too hard. Either approach can wreak havoc on the enamel and gums. Like your brush’s bristles, your brushing technique must be gentle. Also brush upward along the bottom teeth and downward on the top teeth, making sure you get rid of anything caught between. No forward and backward brushing, or forgetting to brush along the gum line. That is why it is important to use a soft bristle brush. The bristles bend along that small space of the gum line, so you can remove bacteria.
Now is also the time to schedule a dental checkup and ensure better dental health. The above information can assist you in brushing at home. If you have any questions, we are always an email or phone call away. Learn how to be a dental pro when it comes to brushing your teeth. Give us a call today to improve your smile along with your brushing technique.
