Although toothbrushing is considered an essential daily health and hygiene habit, there are estimates that range from thirty to fifty percent of the population insufficiently brush their teeth. This is unfortunate because two of the most common oral diseases that can cause tooth loss are preventable with proper oral care. You can avoid tooth decay and periodontal disease with the daily habits of toothbrushing and flossing. Learn more below about the essential aspects of toothbrushing and how long you should brush your teeth for.
To find out more about how to improve your oral hygiene routine schedule an appointment with Trident General Dentistry.
What Kind of Toothbrush Should I Use?
This question may seem complicated because of the many types of toothbrushes available today. Knowing how to choose an effective one can simplify your decision. The first decision to make is whether you want to use a manual or powered toothbrush. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), both types sufficiently remove plaque.
The choice between manual and powered is a personal preference, with one exception. People who have difficulty with manual toothbrushes due to dexterity issues may benefit from an electric toothbrush. Those who might find brushing easier with a powered toothbrush include
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Older adults,
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Children with disabilities,
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And those with conditions such as arthritis.
If you decide to purchase a powered toothbrush, we recommend choosing one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
The size of the toothbrush head is another option based on personal preference. You should use a brush with a head that is suitable for the size of your mouth. It is essential that you can reach all surfaces of all teeth.
The one requirement emphasized by the ADA for manual and powered toothbrushes is that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Although a medium-bristled brush can successfully remove plaque, a soft-bristled brush mitigates the risk of damage to your gums.
What Kind of Toothpaste Should I Use?
Choosing toothpaste can be more confusing than choosing a toothbrush. There are many choices, and the number continues to grow. The options include anti-cavity, whitening, sensitivity, tartar control, smokers, children’s, charcoal, herbal, enamel repair, and more. You should discuss this decision with Trident General Dentistry or your dentist, to determine if you need a particular type.
In general, the ADA recommends toothpaste with fluoride and the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This ensures you are using one that has been thoroughly tested for safety and effectiveness.
How Long Should You Brush Your Teeth For?
Although fresh breath is a benefit of toothbrushing, this reason falls short of the primary purpose of brushing your teeth each day. However, a recent poll of more than five hundred people indicates that the removal of dental plaque is secondary to fresh breath. This poll found that more than half of the respondents brush for only thirty seconds. The recommendation for sufficient plaque removal is that you brush gently, using a circular motion, for a complete two minutes. In addition, you might consider using a timer and brushing each quadrant of your mouth for thirty seconds. This gives you ample time to brush each surface of each tooth.
Can You Brush Your Teeth Too Much?
Brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes is a good thing. But it is possible to overdo it and cause harm to your teeth and gums. You can have clean and healthy teeth if you avoid these tooth brushing mistakes:
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Brushing too many times each day. Two to three times daily allows you to prevent cavities and gum disease when combined with flossing.
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Brushing too long each time you brush. Once you remove the plaque, you only risk damaging your teeth or gums.
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Brushing too soon after eating. Delay brushing for thirty to sixty minutes, especially if you consume acidic foods or drinks. This minimizes damage to the enamel.
Schedule an Appointment
We can help you prevent cavities, gum disease, and have a whiter and brighter smile. Call Trident General Dentistry to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive oral examination and professional teeth cleaning.