Brushing your Teeth
The Basics
Good oral health begins with knowing how to brush and floss. Toothbrushing removes plaque and food particles from the outer, inner and biting surfaces of your teeth.
Every day brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste. We recommend at least twice a day. Worn out toothbrushes cannot properly clean your teeth and may injure your gums. Usually toothbrushes need to be replaced every three to four months.
Brush your teeth on all sides with small round motions and short back and forth strokes, a gentle/delicate "scrubbing" motion. Take the time to brush gently along the gum line. Brushing your tongue will also help freshen your breath and clean your mouth by removing bacteria. An effective brushing takes 2 to 3 minutes. Time yourself and see how you do!
Let's brush!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What about electric toothbrushes?
- A: Our office recommends the Braun Oral B. There are many different brushes on the market today, however, we feel this particular product is gentle, easy to use and closely resembles the instruments we use to clean your teeth. They are advantageous because they can cover more area faster. Electric toothbrushes are recommended for people who have limited manual dexterity.
When first using an electric toothbrush, expect some bleeding from your gums. The bleeding will stop when you learn to control the brush and your gums become healthier. Children under 10 should be supervised when using an electric toothbrush. Avoid mashing the tufts against your teeth in an effort to clean them. Use light force and slow movements, and allow the electric bristle action to do its job.
- Q: Which manual toothbrush is best?
- A: In general, a toothbrush head should be small (1 by 1/2 inch) for easy access to all areas of the mouth, teeth and gums. It should have a long, wide handle for a firm grasp. It should have soft nylon bristles with rounded ends so you won't hurt your gums.
- Q: When should I change my toothbrush?
- A: Be sure to change your toothbrush head (if you are using an electric toothbrush) before the bristles become splayed and frayed. Not only are old toothbrushes ineffective, but they may harbor harmful bacteria that can cause infection such as gingivitis and periodontis. Toothbrushes should be changed every three to four months. Sick people should change their toothbrush at the beginning of an illness and after they feel better.
- Q: How long have toothbrushes been used?
- A: The first toothbrush was invented in China in 1000A.D. It was an ivory handled toothbrush with bristles made from a horse's mane. Toothbrushes became popular in the 19th century among the Victorian affluent. Mass marketing and the advent of nylon bristols in the 20th century made toothbrushes inexpensive and available to everyone.