Do you know you should take at least two minutes to properly brush your teeth? Most people do not come even close to that. All we do is give a hasty scrub before going to slumberland or dash out of the door to perform our daily activities.
So how should we be brushing our teeth? Here are the best and easiest ways that you should remember the next time you brush your teeth.
- Brushing your teeth should be done twice a day (morning and evening) with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes each time.
- Has an oral examination done by your dentist every 6 months?
- Limit your daily snack intake to help in reducing cavities.
- Floss every day after every meal.
How To Brush Your Teeth
- First of all, you need to divide your teeth into four parts: top right, bottom left, top left, and bottom right.
- Place your toothbrush at a 45° angle against your gums then sweep the brush away from the gumline. Repeat the movement of back and forth while scrubbing the teeth. Brush both the front and back using the back and forth technique. Do not forget to brush the cusps which are the chewing surface.
- Remember to brush your tongue to remove any odor.
Flossing
Flossing is not a common regime in many households but it should be done after every meal. So how do you do it the proper way?
- First of all, one should pull approximately 45cm from the floss dispenser.
- Wrap one end of the floss around your left index and middle finger while attaching the other end to your right index and middle finger for a good grip.
- With the required grip, move the floss back and forth on every tooth. Move it up and down in a push and pull motion against every tooth.
What Type Of Toothbrush Should You Use?
Professional dentists recommend soft-bristled brushes. They are the best type of toothbrushes for removing plaque from your teeth. As for young children, parents are advised to use the Small-headed brushes since they can fit into their smaller mouths and can gently handle their delicate teeth.
Also, always remember to replace your toothbrushes once tear and wear begin to show or after every six months. Also, change your toothbrushes once you have had a cold. This is because the toothbrush bristles may be harboring germs.
How Much Toothpaste Should One Use?
You must use toothpaste that’s right for you. Use approximately three-quarters of the size of your toothbrush and one that is good for your teeth.
Mouthwash Use
Although mouthwash is not a real substitute for brushing of teeth, it actually does play an important role in oral health. Just like toothpaste, mouthwashes come in different varieties all depending on what every individual prefers.
When buying a mouthwash, one is advised to buy one without alcohol. The reason is due to the alcohol drying up the mouth thus making it more cavity-prone. Therefore, mouthwashes like Listerine total care is highly recommended as it contains fluoride and is alcohol-free.
