No matter what your age, or the current state of your smile, your dentist has probably tasked you with brushing your teeth on a regular schedule. Well, today our Glendale dentists are going to be taking a closer look at the routine in order to help you optimize your efforts. Keep reading to get some helpful tips…
- Use proper technique
The first thing that you can do is to pay attention to how, specifically, you are brushing your smile. To use proper technique, move your brush in small circular motions over the fronts and backs of your teeth. Apply gentle pressure, and move slowly from tooth to tooth. When you get to your molars, you can move your brush in a back and forth motion over the tops of your teeth in order to clear away bacteria from the crevices on the enamel.
- Pick the right brush
Take a look at the tools that you are using to clean your smile, and talk to your dentist about whether they are right for your smile. For example, many patients will be able to clean their smiles safely and effectively using a soft-bristled brush. In fact, firm bristles may be too tough and abrasive for healthy dental and gum tissues. You also want to ensure that the head of your brush is small enough to reach and clean your back molars.
- Stay at it
Optimizing your at home-oral hygiene routine is all about persistence. It is crucial that you clean your smile as recommended by your dental team: for most of us this means every morning and every night. Many people are surprised to learn about another of the ADA’s recommendations—that you brush for two minutes when you clean your smile. Applying gentle pressure for two full minutes is the most effective way to clear away plaque.
Try focusing on some of these key factors the next time that you brush your teeth. Making the most out of your at-home oral hygiene efforts will only help the long-term health and appearance of your smile. Give our Glendale dentists a call to learn more and to schedule a personal consultation!