Tips on Brushing Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone of good oral hygiene. It's a daily habit which can make a significant difference between having healthy teeth and gums, or facing issues like cavities and gum disease. It also guarantees whiter, cleaner, and more attractive teeth.While brushing your teeth seems simple enough, not everyone gets the most out of their brushing sessions as they should. To help, Wildhorse Dental has open doors to provide the community with tips and advice for brushing right. How Often Should You Brush Your Teeth?The American Dental Association recommends twice-daily brushing, ideally in the morning and before bed. By brushing in the morning, you can start your day with fresh breath and remove any plaque or bacteria that accumulated overnight. Brushing before bed is equally important as it helps remove food particles and plaque buildup throughout the day. However, brushing after eating can help keep your teeth from cavities if you consume sugary drinks or eat sticky foods. The bacteria in your mouth convert sugar into acid, which can quickly erode tooth enamel. Individuals with dry mouth issues or gum disease may need to brush more often. Frequent tooth brushing may also be ideal for prosthetic wearers. Tips for Better Tooth BrushingMere tooth brushing is never enough. You must incorporate a few things to get the best out of your brushing routine. First, use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Soft bristles are gentle on teeth and gums, preventing enamel and gum tissue damage. Over time, the bristles of your toothbrush wear out and become less effective. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Another important tip is to use the right toothpaste. Using fluoride toothpaste can help make your tooth enamel stronger and guard against tooth decay. Brushing alone can't reach the spaces between your teeth. Flossing daily helps remove plaque and food particles from these areas, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Finally, incorporate an antimicrobial mouthwash into your routine to kill bacteria, freshen your breath, and promote overall oral hygiene. A bonus tip, wait 30 minutes after eating before brushing. This gives saliva time to neutralize acids in the mouth caused by food consumption, which can damage enamel if brushed too soon after eating or drinking acidic foods or beverages. The Proper Way to Brush Your TeethProper brushing is vital to effective plaque removal and maintaining good oral health. First, moisten the bristles of your toothbrush before applying fluoride toothpaste to it. Start by brushing in small circles around each tooth for two minutes, especially on the gum line. To ensure you clean all surfaces thoroughly, angle the brush at a 45-degree angle towards your gums and use short back-and-forth strokes. This angle lets the bristles reach the gum line and clean more effectively. Use short, gentle strokes and brush in a circular motion. Remember to pay attention to each tooth's outer, inner, and chewing surfaces. Also, gently brush your tongue, as it can harbor bacteria that cause bad breath. What Else Can I Do to Care for My Teeth?Caring for your teeth requires more than just regular toothbrushing. First, limit your sugar and acidic food intake to avoid tooth enamel erosion. Having regular dental check-ups is another important aspect of taking care of your teeth. Visit a dentist every six months for professional cleanings and comprehensive oral examinations. Regular dental visits can help identify any potential issues early on and prevent them from progressing into more significant problems. Smoking and chewing tobacco can lead to oral health problems, including gum disease, tooth discoloration, and even oral cancer. Quitting tobacco is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. Lastly, stay hydrated. This also helps in rinsing off food particles stuck in your teeth, neutralizing acids, and keeping your mouth moist, reducing the risk of tooth decay. No one wants to experience tooth decay or gum disease. However, with proper brushing, you can maintain your oral health. At Wildhorse Dental we are committed to helping you achieve and maintain your best oral health. Schedule an appointment with us today by calling 636-537-0447. |
Office HoursMonday: 8:00am-5:00pm Tuesday: 7:30am-4:00pm Wednesday: 7:30am-4:00pm Thursday: 7:30am-3:00pm Fri‑Sun: Closed |
