How Often Should You Brush Your Teeth?

According to the World Health Organization, dental diseases such as tooth decay and gum disease are among the world’s most common health conditions. Although largely preventable, oral diseases affect approximately half of the world’s population. Many factors contribute to the increasing rate of these dental conditions that you can help prevent with proper oral hygiene. Therefore, properly brushing your teeth is a critical part of an effective home care plan. Find out how often should you brush your teeth by reading below.

The oral health professionals at Trident Dental can help you maintain healthy gums and teeth. Schedule an appointment for a complete oral examination and professional teeth cleaning to keep your smile bright.

The Importance of Brushing Your Teeth

Plaque constantly forms in your mouth and can quickly cause your teeth to feel different when you move your tongue across them. This sticky film of bacteria can accumulate on any tooth surface, including your roots beneath the gums. When you eat or drink, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that can harm dental enamel and inflame your gums. 

Fortunately, you can remove plaque with toothbrushing and flossing and prevent damage to your teeth and gums. However, the risk for cavities and gingivitis increases as the plaque remains longer on your teeth. After the plaque stays on your teeth for several days, it hardens into tartar. Professional teeth cleaning is necessary to remove the hardened tartar.

How Often To Brush Your Teeth

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice daily. This general guideline is effective for most healthy people. A commonly used routine is brushing in the morning and before bed in the evening. This schedule has benefits, such as:

  • You remove the bacteria that accumulate in your mouth during the night.

  • You get rid of morning breath caused by plaque buildup.

  • You stimulate healthy saliva production that is beneficial to your teeth and gums.

  • You remove bacteria that accumulate as you eat and drink throughout the day.

  • You ensure no food remains on your teeth to produce bacteria while you sleep.

People who should consider brushing more than twice each day include those who:

  • Consume excessive amounts of sugary foods and drinks.

  • Have dry mouth due to a medical condition or medication, such as many antidepressants.

  • Undergo radiation treatment to the head or neck.

  • Smoke.

  • Have extensive dental restorations or wear a dental appliance.

Eight Toothbrushing Tips

For the most effective plaque removal, consider following these tips:

  1. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with multiple layers of rounded bristles.

  2. Choose a toothbrush head size that is suitable for the size of your mouth.

  3. Store your toothbrush in an open area that allows bristles to completely dry between uses.

  4. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if bristles wear or get damaged.

  5. Use short, gentle brushing strokes.

  6. Brush for two minutes and include all tooth surfaces.

  7. Use toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

  8. Include daily flossing to remove plaque between teeth.

Schedule Appointment

Contact us at Trident Dental to learn more about the proper techniques for brushing and flossing to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Schedule Appointment

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