Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock since, oh, June 26, 1498, it’s no news that a toothbrush is the single most important tool you can include in your arsenal of oral health. Why is it, then, that a great deal of people do not brush on a regular basis? Maybe you do brush regularly, but aren’t sure if you’re doing it correctly.
Brushing should be done at least twice a day. Usually it is recommended after breakfast and then again after dinner. However to be most effective it is generally a good idea to brush after every meal. Typically that would mean 3 times a day. The problem most of us have with brushing after lunch is that we aren’t always home around that time of day. For this reason it is important that when we are at home we are brushing properly.
To properly brush your teeth, you must incorporate an “up and down” motion when brushing, as opposed to the ever-popular, yet incorrect, side-to-side routine. Be sure that you use a soft to medium toothbrush, as hard-bristled brushes can easily be coupled with too much pressure, resulting in gum bleeding and stripping away your teeth’s enamel. You must also choose from the variety of toothpastes available. You can find anything from cavity protection to whitening teeth, but a “total care” toothpaste usually has a good balance of both.
{After developing a good brushing routine, you may wish to improve the whiteness of your teeth. This can be done by laser whitening, whitening trays, be mindful that these methods are not meant to be done on a regular basis–usually once, maybe twice a year is sufficient. Over-use of these products can weaken your teeth and cause sensitivity.}
So to recap, it’s imperative that you brush twice a day, with a good (soft-to-medium bristled) toothbrush, using a decent toothpaste. Remember that teeth whitening using chemicals is alright every once in a while, but are not meant to be used on a regular basis. If you have any questions about oral health or experience any painful symptoms such as sensitivity or teeth grinding, you should try to see your dentist immediately to discuss the situation, as letting painful symptoms persist could lead to irreversible damage later on.
