You have been brushing your teeth for years. In fact, you’ve probably done it so many times that you don’t even have to think about it anymore. After all, it is a pretty simple process. You squeeze some toothpaste on your brush and scrub your teeth. Then you are out the door or off to bed. But are you brushing your teeth correctly? Believe it or not, there is a right way to brush.
Make sure that your toothbrush has a head that is small enough to reach every part of your mouth, and that the bristles are not worn or flattened. If the bristles are not in good shape, or if your toothbrush is three months old, it is time to buy a new one. You need to brush at least twice a day. If you brush after every meal you should wait for thirty minutes to give your saliva time to wash away and neutralize the bacteria left over from your food. To do a thorough job, you need to spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth. You may need to time yourself for the first week to make sure that you are taking the full two minutes to brush. First, clean the outsides of your upper, and then your lower teeth. Then, clean the insides of your upper teeth, followed by your lower teeth. When finished, scrub the chewing and biting surfaces. While you have your toothbrush out, you should also brush your tongue. Start by scrubbing the back of your tongue and work your way forward.
No matter how good you may be at brushing your teeth, you should also see your dentist at least twice a year for your regular cleanings and exams. If you live in the Carlsbad, California area and would like to schedule an appointment at Steven A. Beuligmann, DDS Inc, call 760.729.5964 today. We’re excited to help you get the smile of your dreams!