Brushing your teeth is something you have done every day since you were a child, so it is easy to assume you are doing it right. In reality, many people rush, press too hard or skip the spaces between their teeth. A few changes to your routine can help keep your teeth and gums in much better shape.
How Often And How Long To Brush
Dentists generally recommend brushing twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed, for about two minutes each time. Two minutes feels longer than you think, so use a timer or a toothbrush with a built-in one. Use a fluoride toothpaste, because fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel. After brushing, spit out the excess toothpaste but try not to rinse straight away with water, so the fluoride stays on your teeth a little longer.
The Right Brushing Technique
Hold your brush at a slight angle towards the gum line and use gentle, small circular movements. Work your way around your mouth so you clean the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces and the chewing surfaces of every tooth. Do not forget the back teeth, where food often gets stuck. Brushing hard does not clean better. Too much pressure can wear down enamel and irritate your gums, so a soft or medium brush and a light touch are usually best. Many people also like to brush their tongue gently to help with fresh breath.
Why Flossing Matters
Your toothbrush cannot reach properly between your teeth, and that is where plaque likes to build up. Cleaning between your teeth once a day with floss or small interdental brushes helps remove it. When using floss, slide it gently between two teeth, curve it around the side of each tooth in a C shape and move it up and down. Do not snap it down onto your gums. If your gums bleed a little at first, it is often a sign they need more regular cleaning, but if it continues, ask your dentist.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Using the same toothbrush for too long is a common one. Replace it every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles look frayed. Brushing straight after acidic food or drinks such as fruit juice or fizzy drinks is another, because enamel is softer for a while afterwards, so it is better to wait a bit. What you eat matters too, and we have written about healthy food for the teeth if you want to know more.
Good oral care is about doing simple things well and doing them every day. Brush gently for two minutes twice a day, clean between your teeth once a day and keep up with regular dental check-ups. Your teeth and gums, and possibly your overall health, will thank you for it.
