Brushing teeth – The DO’s and DON’TS
A bright and confident smile is one of your best assets. And to maintain a shining smile, it is crucial to have great oral hygiene habits.
Some of the most important oral hygiene habits include flossing and dietary habits, but by far the most important is brushing your teeth.
Whilst we all learnt the importance, and techniques of brushing when we were children, with time, it’s easy to forget the nuances of this daily habit.
To ensure you are getting the most out of your brushing routine, here are the do’s and dont’s of brushing your teeth.
Do’s
- Brush twice a day everyday
Dentists recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day – once in the morning after breakfast and once at night after dinner. This ensures that you’re removing food particles and bacteria that accumulate throughout the day. - Use a soft toothbrush
It is vital to use a soft brush to avoid damaging your teeth and gums. It is also beneficial to use a small head so that it is easier to reach areas near the back and sides of your mouth. - Use fluoride toothpaste
Fluoride is an essential ingredient found in toothpastes and in water which helps to strengthen teeth and prevent decay and sensitivity. It is important to check your tooth paste to ensure it contains fluoride. - Clean your tongue
Your tongue is an area in your mouth that holds a lot of bacteria. This bacteria can lead to decay, gum disease and a bad smell from your mouth. - Avoid excessive rinsing
Once finished brushing, avoid using excessive water to rinse out your mouth. Less rinsing allows for the fluoride in the paste to remain around your teeth and gums.
Don’ts
- Don’t skip on your routine
Make it a habit to brush every day and not miss a session. Consistency is key and missing too many sessions can lead to adverse effects on your oral health. - Don’t rush during brushing
When brushing your teeth, It is important to brush for a full 2 minutes. This ensures that you clean all surfaces of all teeth. Not rushing means you avoid an incomplete job. - Avoid using excessive pressure
Whilst brushing regularly is important, using too much pressure whilst brushing or brushing too frequently can lead to gum erosion and sensitive teeth. - Avoid hard bristles
Hard-bristle toothbrushes can be harsh on your teeth and gums. Stick to soft or extra-soft bristles for a gentle, effective clean. - Avoid frequent use of whitening powders and pastes
Whitening powders and pastes tend to be very abrasive on the gums and teeth. Consistent use of these can lead to problems like sensitivity and erosion of the outer layer of enamel.
By following these do’s and don’ts, you can maintain a healthy and radiant smile for years to come. Remember that good oral hygiene is not only imporant for your teeth but also for your overall health. Neglecting your oral health can lead to various dental issues and even impact your general well-being. So, make brushing your teeth a priority, and you’ll reap the benefits of a beautiful, healthy smile.
And remember if you have any concerns or issues, please contact your dentist in Craigieburn, Dazzling Smiles Dental.
