A proper oral care routine includes brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist, but although most of us brush our teeth daily, we might not be doing so correctly. Let’s take a look at how to brush your teeth the right way and maintain a proper oral care routine.
Use the Right Toothbrush
Before you can brush your teeth correctly, you need the right kind of toothbrush. Purchase a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits comfortably in your mouth to allow you to reach all areas. A smaller toothbrush head is usually best for getting all those hard-to-reach places. Get a new toothbrush every three to four months, or more often if you notice the bristles are worn or frayed; a worn-out toothbrush can’t clean your teeth as well.
Don’t Rush
Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time; brushing when you wake up in the morning and right before bed is recommended. Two minutes will probably seem like a long time at first since most people don’t brush that long, but it’s necessary to make sure you clean all the surfaces of your teeth. Using a stopwatch or a toothbrush with a built in timer can help you make sure you reach your two minute goal.
Clean All Your Teeth
Hold your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle along the gum line while you brush. Use short strokes in a back and forth motion to clean the outer and inner surfaces of both the top and bottom teeth. Remember to clean the chewing surfaces of your teeth as well. The tip of your toothbrush can be used to brush behind each tooth.
Be Gentle
Use short, precise strokes and avoid brushing too hard; always brush with a gentle back and forth motion. Brushing too hard can cause trauma to your teeth and gums by wearing down enamel and pushing back the gums, leading to receding gums and tooth sensitivity.
Remember Your Tongue
It’s easy to overlook, but brushing your tongue is an important part of oral care. Brushing your tongue helps freshen your breath and keep your mouth clean by removing odor-causing bacteria.
Floss Daily
Daily flossing is also important for proper oral care, and is usually performed at bedtime. When you floss, use 18 to 24 inches of floss and wrap the ends around your index and middle fingers. Firmly hold the floss in a C-shape around each tooth, then move the floss up and down and back and forth against each tooth. This removes food, bacteria, and plaque from under the gum line and between the teeth in areas where your toothbrush can’t reach.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Even with proper brushing and flossing, it’s important to visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and oral exam. They can remove any plaque or tartar build up missed by your regular routine.
Choose the Right Oral Care Products
The right oral care products also improve your oral care routine. Choosing products made with natural ingredients lets you avoid unnecessary additives, sweeteners, dyes, and harsh chemicals. At Oral Essentials, all of our products are created with 100% natural derived ingredients chosen for their abilities to promote your oral health. Adding Oral Essentials toothpaste and mouthwash is a great way to boost your oral care routine.