Four Steps For Proper Teeth Brushing–Dental Care in Elgin

You may have brushed your teeth thousands of times, but does that mean that you are doing it correctly? Not necessarily. In providing spectacular dental care in Elgin, Dr. Lodding and his team at Smile for Life Dental share four basic, yet important steps to proper brushing and adequate oral hygiene.

1. Use The Right Equipment – Choose a toothbrush size that fits with the size of your mouth, and allows you to reach and clean the teeth at the very back. Toothbrushes with soft, rounded bristles work best for cleaning the teeth. Make sure that the toothbrush you use is approved by the American Dental Association and has the ADA seal on the packaging. As much as you like your toothbrush, don’t forget that the bristles do not last forever. Replace it every 3-4 months or sooner if necessary.

2. Good Timing – Brush after every meal if possible. Brushing at least twice a day is recommended, always making sure you brush your teeth before you go to bed. Brushing your teeth after you floss proves more effective in preventing issues with gum disease and tooth decay.

3. Brush Correctly – Brush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth, directing attention to where the teeth and gums meet. Receding gums can result over time from brushing too hard, so do not scrub them. Rather, use a gentle, up and down circular motion. Make sure that all three surfaces of each tooth get cleaned, including the often-overlooked side that faces the tongue. A pea-sized amount of toothpaste is all you require for an effective cleaning. Don’t forget to brush your tongue before spitting and rinsing.

4. Pay Attention – Focus on the task at hand when brushing and don’t rush. A thorough cleaning should take between 2-3 minutes. Instead of brushing the same way every time, sometimes try reversing your usual pattern. This keeps you attentive to your brushing, and helps prevent missing the same areas over and over again.

Brushing your teeth is not rocket science, but it is important to do it correctly. This along with regular dental check-ups gives you the best chance for a happy, healthy smile. AtSmile for Life Dental, we promote diligent dental care in Elgin, and would be happy to assist you to achieve your dental goals.