Unfortunately, even if you are brushing twice daily, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee your teeth are receiving all the care they need. In fact, engaging in a few not-so-great habits could be the reason why your oral hygiene routine is lacking. To ensure you are thoroughly cleaning your mouth, it is important that you understand the proper brushing techniques and are using the right tools. We have prepared a list of eight dental tips that can take your oral hygiene regimen to the next level.
1. Use The Proper Brushing Techniques
Now listen, you may be brushing your teeth, but that doesn’t mean they are clean. Gliding the bristles of your toothbrush against your teeth quickly won’t eliminate food particles or polish your teeth. Instead, try positioning your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle. Use back and forth motions to brush the sides and tops of your teeth. To brush the backs of your teeth, use shorter strokes and hold the toothbrush vertically.
2. Brush Enough
Ask yourself this question, “how long do I usually brush my teeth for?”If the answer is less than two minutes, then you aren’t brushing your teeth for a long enough period of time. At our dental clinic in Millwoods, we recommend that all our patients brush their teeth for a minimum of two minutes. Brushing your teeth for the recommended amount of time can ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and free from debris.
3. Choose The Right Toothbrush
When it comes to selecting the right toothbrush, you should ensure that it is small or medium sized. The head and bristles of the toothbrush should be small enough so that you can reach the crevices of your molars.
4. Floss Properly
Flossing allows you to remove food particles and germs that are lodged between your teeth. It is ideal, for you to use a piece of dental floss that is 18 inches in length. This will prevent you from reinserting bacteria into your mouth and using an area of the floss that has been previously used. Be sure to grip the floss around each tooth so that it forms a “C” shape.
5. Use a Tongue Scraper
Even after brushing, bacteria can still reside on your tongue. Use a tongue scraper as part of your daily routine to eliminate bacteria and freshen your breath. You can purchase a tongue scraper at your dental office in Millwoods or over-the-counter.
6. Stop Snacking
Craving a midnight snack? Just be sure that after you’re done snacking, you brush your teeth again. If you snack without brushing, you risk developing tooth decay. This is because; the food particles and sugar will cling to your teeth and fuel the bacteria in your mouth.
7. Use a Mouthwash
Rinsing with mouthwash can banish debris that irritates the gumline and is responsible for causing gingivitis. Remember, a mouthwash is able to reach areas in your mouth that your toothbrush or dental floss can’t.
8. Change Your Toothbrush
Over time, the bristles on your toothbrush will become frayed. As a rule of thumb, replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months for a deeper clean.