We all know to brush our teeth every day. But, we often learned how to do this as a child. When was the last time you analyzed your brushing technique? Here are some things to remember as you brush up on your brushing.
Time: Make sure you are brushing your teeth for a full two minutes, twice a day. If you have trouble spending that much time on your teeth, try setting a timer. Some people find it useful to set a 30-second timer for each quadrant of their mouth to ensure a thorough clean.
Tools: Your toothbrush makes a big difference in how your teeth get clean. Use a very soft-bristled toothbrush. It is easy to find soft-bristled toothbrushes that have earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This seal is found on the packaging of individual brushes, and indicates that the toothbrush has been tested thoroughly for safety and effectiveness. Use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste and brush away!
Pressure: Use a gentle pressure when brushing your teeth. Think “massage” rather than “scrub.” If you use firm-to-harsh pressure, you run the risk of scratching and tearing your gum tissues and tooth enamel. This opens them up to infection and disease.
For more information, call Jacob Shrayman, DDS in Verona, New Jersey, at (973) 791-4104. Dr. Jacob Shrayman and our team are happy to help!