5 Teeth Brushing Tips From Your Dentist

Are you looking for tips from a dentist on how to brush your teeth more effectively? Look no further! Here are 5 teeth brushing tips from your dentist that will help you get the most out of your teeth brushing routine. These tips, when combined with regular dental check-ups, will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy and sparkling. So let’s get started!

1) Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste

When it comes to brushing your teeth, one of the most important techniques is to use the right amount of toothpaste. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), adults and children should use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste when brushing their teeth. That’s enough toothpaste to cover the entire surface area of the bristles on your toothbrush. Too much toothpaste can lead to excess foaming and gagging which can affect your brushing technique. The fluoride in toothpaste helps strengthen teeth and protect them from decay, so it’s important to get the right amount. To ensure that you are using the correct amount, try using a pea-sized dollop of toothpaste on your brush and be sure to spread it out evenly across the bristles.

 

2) Brush your tongue

Brushing your tongue is an important part of your daily oral hygiene routine, but it’s something that many people tend to overlook. The bacteria and other debris that can build up on the tongue can contribute to bad breath and other dental issues. It’s important to keep your tongue clean for optimal oral health.

The best technique for brushing your tongue is to use gentle strokes with a toothbrush or tongue scraper. Start at the back of your tongue and gently work forward. You may even find that brushing back and forth across the entire length of the tongue works best for you. Be sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly after brushing your tongue. By following these simple techniques, you’ll be able to keep your tongue clean and healthy!

 

3) Use gentle circular motions

When brushing your teeth, it’s important to use gentle circular motions instead of vigorous scrubbing. This helps remove plaque and bacteria while also protecting your gums and enamel from damage. Start by gently running the bristles along the gum line and then use circular strokes to clean each tooth. Make sure to focus on every surface, including the back and top of your teeth. Continue for two minutes, or about 30 seconds for each quadrant.

4) Don’t forget the gum line

Brushing your teeth isn’t just about the surface of your teeth, it’s also about taking care of the gums. The gum line is the junction between the teeth and the gums and is a crucial part of your oral health. When you brush, make sure to spend extra time around this area. Move your toothbrush in gentle circular motions along the gum line to remove any plaque or buildup that may be present. This will help keep your gums healthy and prevent gum disease. Additionally, remember to brush in an up-and-down motion along the sides of your teeth, as this is another area where plaque can build up and cause issues. Taking care of your gum line is an important part of keeping your teeth clean and healthy.

5) Rinse with water

Rinsing with water after brushing your teeth is an important step in maintaining good oral hygiene. Rinsing helps to remove any leftover particles of food that may have been missed during brushing. Additionally, it will also help to rinse away any toothpaste residue and ensure that your mouth remains clean. Swish the water around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Make sure to spit the water into the sink and not back into the cup, as this could spread germs. Try not to swallow any of the water while rinsing, as this could lead to unwanted side effects such as stomach ache or nausea.

If you are in the San Francisco area, give Dentist Scott Prawat a call in Los Gatos. He has 30 years of experience as an expert in general, cosmetic, and dental implants in Los Gatos dentistry.