Holistic Dental Melbourne CBD knows that it’s easy to go into ‘auto-pilot’ when you are in a routine of brushing every day. And because people find it to be a bit of a chore, the mind can easy wander off. ‘Zoning-out’ is not recommended if you want to ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned. To remain focused on brushing, think about the techniques discussed below to ensure you have cleaned your teeth thoroughly.
Giving your attention to how and where you are brushing can reduce tooth decay and bad breath.
The Toothbrush
While the ‘how’ of brushing your teeth is important, the toothbrush itself plays a part in maintaining good dental health. Ensure you change your toothbrush at least every three months, or if the bristles look worn before three months.
Your toothbrush should be soft so it does not damage your teeth or gums during brushing.
After brushing every day, give your tooth brush a good rinse off and use a toothbrush holder so the bristles have time to dry. Ensure your toothbrush bristle head is in the upward position in the holder for air drying.
Sometimes toothbrush holders become unhygienic from an accumulation of water in the bottom so check every month and wash if needed.
If you’ve been unwell, or want to disinfect your toothbrush, soak it in 1 cup water with 2 teaspoons of dissolved bi-carbonate of soda for 5 minutes or food grade hydrogen peroxide.
How to Brush your Teeth Correctly
- Tilt your toothbrush on an upward angle towards the gumline.
- Use a thumbnail-sized amount of toothpaste.
- Move the brush in a circular motion being careful to be gentle so you do not damage the tooth enamel or gumline.
- Brush the outside line of teeth cleaning and then on the inside.
- Run the brush in a back and forth motion on the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
- Give your tongue a brush. (some toothbrushes have a soft tool you can use to do this)
- Once you have finished brushing, spit out the toothpaste.
Some people find that using an electric toothbrush the best way to ensure they, and their children brush their teeth for the recommended time of two minutes, twice a day.
Remember that it’s important for your children to know how to brush their teeth properly so if you have the right technique and can teach them from a young age, the will develop a healthy brushing routine.
The Ultimate Goal
Always remember that the reason for brushing your teeth is to reduce food particles building up in the mouth, leading to a build-up of plaque and tooth decay. Keep the ultimate goal in mind that you are brushing so that you have your teeth well and truly for years and years to come.
If you would like further information on how to maintain optimum dental health then feel free to call us or make a time to see one of our friendly dentists at Holistic Dental Melbourne CBD.
