Am I Brushing My Teeth Right?

Brushing your teeth is a thing you do every day, but do you do it correctly? There’s an art to brushing, and unfortunately, brushing incorrectly can lead to problems like gum recession, plaque and tartar buildup, and gum disease. Your dentist in Turlock, CA can help you decide whether you’re brushing your teeth the right way. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s the best tooth brushing technique?

To brush your teeth, place the bristles of your toothbrush (with toothpaste on the bristles) against your teeth, then gently brush the enamel of your teeth in small circles, covering the entire tooth up to the gum line. Do this all around the outside of your teeth, then brush the insides of your teeth the same way. Finally, brush the flat parts of your molars with gentle back and forward motions.

How long should I brush my teeth?

Brush your teeth for two minutes. Don’t brush for less than two minutes, as you may not get your teeth clean enough. Also, don’t brush your teeth for more than two minutes, as this is too long, and you could do damage to your teeth.

What kind of toothbrush should I use?

Use a soft-bristle toothbrush, or an electric toothbrush that’s recommended by your dentist. Electric toothbrushes can be very effective at cleaning teeth, and many electric toothbrushes come with features that make your tooth brushing efforts more effective.

Can my dentist tell me whether I’m brushing my teeth correctly?

Your dentist can tell you whether you’re brushing your teeth correctly if you demonstrate your technique for your dentist. Your dentist may also be able to tell whether you’re brushing your teeth correctly just by looking at your teeth.

To find out more about how to brush your teeth, talk to your dentist at Progressive Health Dental when you come in for your next dental exam in Turlock, CA. Call today.