When it comes to taking care of your smile, the goal is to protect your teeth and gums from tooth decay and gum disease. At Center Creek Dental, we have some tips to share with our patients in Lehi, Utah, and the surrounding community, on how to brush those pearly whites!
Your Toothbrush
To clean your smile, begin by brushing your teeth every day, at least twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Using medium or firm strength bristles can damage gum tissue and tooth enamel. Now, whether or not you choose a manual toothbrush or a powered one, is your choice. The goal is to make tooth brushing an event you do faithfully, and whichever one makes you want to brush, do that. Just be sure that the size and shape of your toothbrush fits into your mouth comfortably, letting you reach all your teeth. Aim for replacing your toothbrush as the bristles wear down and become worn, this usually means 3-4 months. Worn bristles can’t effectively clean tooth surfaces and in between teeth and gums.
Brushing Correctly
Next, aim for brushing for two minutes each time, using an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste. Generally speaking, if your toothpaste carries the ADA Seal, it will have fluoride in it to protect your tooth enamel. Why do you want to use ADA approved products? Because ADA-approved products have been proven to be both effective and safe to use. Any claims made on the packaging have been proven to be true so you know that the product works exactly as it claims to do.
To brush your pearly whites, you will want to hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. You will want to gently brush back and forth in short movements. Clean the outside of your teeth, the inside areas, and the tops or chewing surfaces. For the inside of your front teeth, hold the brush vertically and use up-and-down movements.
Caring for Your Toothbrush
After brushing, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly to remove food particles and toothpaste residue. Let your toothbrush air out between use, so be sure to store it uncovered and upright, and avoid letting it touch another toothbrush to prevent contamination.
Finally, don’t forget to floss between teeth and under the gumline to remove plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can’t clean, limit snacking come in for professional cleanings.
Dr. Ferrell and our Center Creek Dental in Lehi, Utah are happy to help you with all of your oral care needs. Please call us today at 801-766-3700 if you have any questions or would like to schedule your next checkup!