Brush Up Your 'Tooth brushing Skills'

Dr. Sonal Herekar , Dentist

Why is proper brushing so important? Because maintaining good oral hygiene at home is the number one way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease - the deadly duo of dental distress. Tooth decay is the world’s most common chronic disease, while Periodontitis (gum disease) is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.

Choose the Right Brush.
Think about the size of your mouth. If you are straining to open wide enough to let the brush in, the brush is probably too big. It should feel good in your mouth and in your hand, so you’ll use it often.

Know your bristles, too.
If they're really stiff, they can hurt your gums. A soft-bristled toothbrush with a head that’s small enough to fit comfortably in your mouth, yet is able to reach all areas that need cleaning, is best suited. You should also use an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste; it doesn’t matter what brand or flavor you choose. If your brush is more than three months old, or if the bristles are beginning to stiffen or fray, it’s time to replace it.

Electric or Manual Toothbrush?
It's an individual preference. In the end, it's not about the tooth brush, it's about how YOU brush!

Get a nice Grip
Gently but firmly, grasp the toothbrush in your fingers and not your fist. Hold it against your teeth, at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Now, start making short up-and-down strokes over the surfaces of your teeth or use an Oval/Circular pattern if you prefer.Clean just a few teeth at a time; when you’re finished with one area, move on to the next, until it’s all done—and while you’re at it, brush your tongue too!

Take Your Time
How long did it take you to clean your whole mouth? If it was less than two minutes, you probably didn’t spend enough time brushing. Are you brushing enough? Twice a day is recommended, but three times a day is best. Brushing more than three times a day might not be ideal. That's because too much, can wear down your teeth's outer shell, called enamel, and damage your gums. Always use a light pressure & avoid bearing down too hard. It doesn’t take a lot of force to remove plaque.

Cover All the Bases
Did your brush get to all areas of your teeth—the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces, and the spaces in between? If so, your teeth should feel smooth and slick when your tongue runs over them.

Control Your Sour Tooth
Energy drinks, diet sodas and sour candies: even healthy things like apple juice, orange juice, and coffee -- have acid that can soften tooth enamel. If you do go for that stuff, wait half an hour before you brush. That gives your saliva time to restore tooth enamel.
As always keep smiling! :) more