7 Brushing Tips for Cleaner Mouth and Healthier Smile
People need to realize that having a healthier smile starts with your toothbrush.
Dentists recommend one should use a toothbrush with soft bristles and comfortable to hold.
A toothbrush with soft bristles is more gentle on the teeth and gums. It is best to find a toothbrush shaped accordingly that can reach all parts of one’s mouth.
Brushing removes food bits or remnants and plaque. The plaque is a sticky, colorless cocktail of bacteria and sugars. Plaque sticks to one’s teeth in a thin layer.
If it is not removed, the bacteria may cause cavities and gum disease. Plaque which is left on the teeth hardens into what is called as tartar (also called calculus).
In as short as 48 hours, tartar can cause gum disease, and may also lead to tooth loss.
Furthermore, as plaque turns into tartar, it would be difficult to remove it using a toothbrush – only the dentist can remove it for you.
Here now are seven tips that can give you a cleaner and healthier mouth.
1) It is best to brush your teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. Brush your teeth slowly and gently across the surface of every tooth.
2) It is best to place the bristles next to the outer surface of your teeth toward the gum line. Then, brush the teeth in a circular motion.
3) Make sure to gently scrub the outer surfaces of the upper and lower teeth and reach the back of the teeth, too.
4) Don’t forget to brush the inside surfaces of all your teeth.
5) Dentists say that it is a nice habit to scrub the chewing surfaces, especially the grooves where food bits may stay.
6) Clean the front part of the teeth using the tip of the toothbrush in a circular motion.
7) Finally, don’t forget to gently brush the roof of your mouth, the insides of your cheeks, and your tongue. This can freshen your breath.
Moreover, don’t forget to floss each day to remove plaque from between your teeth and under your gum line, where your toothbrush may not able to reach.
Make sure you see your dentist twice a year to check on your teeth’s health.