Everyone wants a beautiful smile – but not everyone wants to do the work (brushing) to get beautiful and healthy teeth. Quite frankly, some just don’t know how – even though they visit the dentist regularly.
Here are some tooth tips; advice on how to brush your teeth properly.
First of all, you should take a full two minutes to brush your teeth. 35 seconds is not going to cut it. Gallup NM Dentists recommend brushing twice a day – at least – and for two minutes each time. It’s ideal to brush after each meal, but not immediately after you’ve eaten. Fizzy drinks, wine or acidic foods can actually cause damage, or soften the enamel of teeth, if brushed right after eating. It’s best to give one hour after a meal before brushing to allow your mouth’s saliva to neutralize the acid.
Choose toothpaste with fluoride to help fight plaque. Plaque is bacteria that contribute to gum disease and tooth decay. Ask your dentist what he or she recommends or choose one that has the American Dental Association recommendation on the labeling. Using toothpaste that sparkles, has bright colors or is cherry flavored doesn’t enhance the health of your teeth. They’re just gimmicks.
Choose a toothbrush with a smaller head for easier maneuverability and one with soft bristles. Harder bristles cause scrapes and abrasions to the enamel of your teeth. Any dentist will tell you that.
When brushing your teeth, face a mirror to see what you are doing. Brush in small circular patterns or short back and forth motions.
While all these tips should be taken into consideration, the single most important piece of advice for brushing is to do it twice a day for two full minutes each time. That is the recommendation of the American Dental Association.