Make Sure You Are Brushing Correctly

May 27, 2016

Wondering why you keep getting cavities? Learn about some of the possible reasons from your Charlotte dentist.

Perhaps you need to “brush up” on your tooth brushing technique. The qualified dentists at Park Crossing Dentistry are here to tell you the proper technique for brushing your teeth.

You mean there is a right way and a wrong way to brush my teeth?

Actually, there is. In fact, the American Dental Association has developed a method for brushing your teeth. The doctors and staff at Park Crossing Dentistry can show you exactly how to most effectively keep your pearly whites clean and your gums healthy.

The wrong way

Too often, people just grab their toothbrush and start scrubbing. More specifically, they use a hard, saw-like, back and forth motion. Worse, maybe the toothbrush is old; maybe the bristles are too hard. Bottom line? Not only is that hard sawing motion not very effective for cleaning teeth, it can actually damage your gums as well as strip away tooth enamel.

The right way

The ADA recommends the following:

• Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums
• Gently move the brush back and forth in short, tooth-wide strokes
• Brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces, and chewing surfaces of your teeth
• Tilt the brush vertically and make several up and down strokes to clean the inside surfaces of your front teeth
• Brush your tongue! This not only removes bacteria, it helps keep your breath fresh.

Make sure you have the right toothbrush and replace it every 3-4 months. Replace it sooner if the bristles start to get worn or frayed. Ideally, your toothbrush should be easy for you to use, should have soft bristles, and should be able to fit and reach all areas of your mouth.

Of course, brushing your teeth regularly and properly is an important part of your oral health, along with regular flossing and regular visits to your Charlotte dentist.

For more information, call Park Crossing Dentistry at (704)541-5059.