Glendale General Dentist Explains How to Brush Teeth Properly

Written by Dr. McKay on Nov 29, 2011

Taking care of our teeth at home is one of the most important things that you can do to keep your mouth healthy and your teeth beautiful. As we go throughout the day plaque accumulates on our teeth—plaque is a sticky bacterial film that coats dental enamel and gum tissue. In order to prevent dental decay and infections, it is important to clean plaque out of the mouth regularly. This is why it’s so important that patients brush and floss at least twice daily.

 

Here I’m going to review some tips that our Glendale general dentists give patients to ensure that they are getting the most out of their daily dental hygiene routine.

 

1.     Pick the right brush: your brush should be appropriately sized for your mouth. The head of the brush should be able to fit inside of your mouth with space to spare—allowing you to reach the back corners of your mouth.

2.     Choose the right toothpaste: most patients should be using fluoridated toothpaste to help enamel remineralization. Children under 2 do not need to use fluoridated toothpaste, and young children who are likely to swallow fluoridated toothpaste should be closely supervised to prevent fluorosis.

3.     Use proper brushing technique: Begins brushing by holding your toothbrush at a 45° angle at the gumline. Proceed to brush the front, top, and back of all of your teeth with small circular movements. Always remember to brush your tongue and surrounding oral tissues as well.

 

Many patients develop bad brushing habits because they aren’t actively thinking about how to clean their mouth. Using these tips, evaluate your brushing routine and see if you can improve your dental health with these simple tips. Give our Glendale general dentists a call if you have any questions, or you’d like to schedule an appointment—(818) 334-2974.