Tips on Brushing![]() Pick an Appropriate Toothbrush for Your GumsYou ought to replace your toothbrush every three months or as soon as it deteriorates. Pick a toothbrush with a head and handle that is comfortable to use. The oral cavity varies in different people, so you should ensure the head is the appropriate size. The handle should fit your hand to allow you to brush your teeth comfortably for two minutes. Soft bristles are particularly important if you have sensitive gums susceptible to bleeding. They are also more flexible and can clean hidden areas more easily. Consider using an electric toothbrush, especially one with a timer. Modern models of electric toothbrushes incorporate sensors to ensure you are applying the correct pressure. Our dental team recommends using a brush with an American Dental Association sign of approval. Brushing too vigorously can damage the tooth’s enamel and injure your gum line. Clean your teeth for at least two minutes to clear food debris and bacteria. Research on dental health shows that brushing your teeth twice a day can reduce the risk of tooth decay by nearly 50 percent. Brushing Your Teeth the Right WayWait for 30 minutes after a meal before brushing your teeth. Acidic foods can deteriorate the enamel if you brush and cleanse your teeth immediately after eating. Use fluoride toothpaste to protect the enamel and reduce the risk of tooth decay. Place the head of the brush at an angle of 45 degrees. Start brushing from a different section of the mouth each time you clean your teeth. That ensures you don’t focus too much on one area of the teeth. Brush with broad and gentle strokes, moving the head of the brush back and forth. Ensure you cover the hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. Tilt the head to clean the inner sides of the mouth and brush vertically to remove food debris. Focus on brushing each tooth and vary your movement applying gentle but firm pressure. Ensure you clean your toothbrush thoroughly to prevent bacteria accumulation on the bristles. You can soak the brush in mouthwash to kill harmful microbes. Brush Your Tongue and GumsBacteria can also accumulate on your tongue and gums. However, be sure to be gentle when cleaning the gum line. Gentle pressure with a soft bristle brush is more effective at eliminating plaque. Vigorous brushing may cause injuries around the gum line, increasing the risk of infection. Brush the inner and outer parts of the gums to eliminate plaque and prevent cavities. Brushing your tongue is crucial for removing bacteria that cause bad breath and dry mouth. Consider consulting our dentist at Chicago Dental Esthetics if you experience bleeding or pain when brushing your teeth. Talk to our team at (224) 341-5162 to book a dental appointment today. |