We all have to brush our teeth every day. It's an important part of our daily hygiene, but how many of us really know if we're doing it correctly? In this article we discuss a number of frequently asked questions and give you general tips. Where can you professionalize further?
How should you brush your teeth?
Brushing your teeth seems simple, but the right technique is essential for an effective cleaning. Have you ever experienced stress for a longer period of time, have you been ill or have you had a baby? Then you know what it's like to have inflamed gums, canker sores or diseased teeth. Everything becomes sensitive and it can even develop into serious chronic diseases. To prevent and combat this, proceed as follows:
Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush with gentle, circular movements and don't forget to brush your gums, the backs of your teeth and your tongue.
Step-by-step plan for the correct brushing technique
Manual brushing
- Position - Hold the brush at 45 degrees to the gums
- Movements - Gently move back and forth over all tooth surfaces
- Tongue brushing - Gently cleanse the tongue
- Duration - at least 2 minutes, twice a day
Electric cleaning
- Position - Place the brush at an angle on the teeth, apply light pressure
- Hold still - Let the brush do the work, a few seconds per tooth
- Sequence - Follow a set routine along all tooth surfaces
- Tongue brushing - Gently cleanse the tongue
- Duration - Minimum 2 minutes, twice a day
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How long should you brush your teeth?
It is a general guideline to brush twice a day, for two minutes at a time. This ensures that you have more than enough time to thoroughly clean all surfaces in the mouth. This way you can get through your six-monthly dental check-up unscathed!
Are you going to brush your teeth before or after breakfast?
The best time to brush your teeth. Clear for some and a great uncertainty for others. Brushing before breakfast removes bacteria that have built up overnight, while brushing after breakfast removes food particles and sugars. If you choose to brush after meals, it is wise to wait at least half. Otherwise, acidic or sweet ingredients will destroy your tooth enamel and of course we don't want that.
Is brushing your teeth for too long bad for you?
Yes, brushing too long or too hard damages the enamel of your teeth and can damage the gums. Those two minutes at a time were created for a reason. Don't put too much pressure on your gums and teeth, because that is also not good.
How do I choose the right toothbrush?
Choose a soft toothbrush that feels comfortable in your hand and fits easily in your mouth. Not a brush head that is too large and not necessarily electric. An Oral B or Philips Sonicare is fine, but not for everyone. Brushing by hand can produce just as good results if you use the right technique.
How often should I replace my toothbrush?
Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are worn out. This is essential, because brushing with an outdated toothbrush head causes unnecessary damage to the mouth.
Good oral hygiene starts with brushing your teeth effectively. By using the right techniques and taking brushing timing into account, you will significantly improve your oral health. Don't forget to replace your toothbrush and visit a dentist annually for a routine checkup!
