Brushing your teeth has been a part of your daily routine since you were old enough to go to the dentist and even before. However, there’s still a chance that you could be missing important steps, downgrading the quality of your at-home dental care. Below are three essential tooth-brushing steps that you should stop skipping.

Commonly Forgotten Steps When Brushing Your Teeth

1. Brushing or Scraping Your Tongue

Whether you use your toothbrush or a specialized tongue scraper from your dentist, cleaning the tongue is just as important as cleaning your teeth. The textured surface of your tongue can trap bacteria and tiny bits of decaying food, contributing to bad breath. Removing the buildup of bacteria and particulates at least once a day may improve your halitosis and will leave your mouth feeling extra clean.

2. Brushing Your Gums

Your gums are one of the most important parts of your mouth, as they protect your teeth’s roots and help hold them in position, so they should be cleaned, too. To do so, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and lightly brush all of your gums, moving in small circles. Bacteria and food trapped against or under your gums will be brushed away, reducing your risk of gum disease and cavities, and the stimulation will improve circulation to your gums and teeth, boosting their health with a rush of nutrients. Plus, if you’re currently undergoing or plan to undergo teeth whitening treatment, brushing your gums will prevent plaque and tartar from interfering with it, giving your smile a more uniform and whiter appearance.

3. Spending More Time on Your Back Molars

The teeth at the back of your mouth, called molars, are prone to cavities, due in part to how difficult they are to thoroughly clean. Used for chewing and grinding food, they do most of the work while you’re eating, so a cavity or infection in one can cause severe pain and prevent you from eating. Do your best to prevent cavities from forming by paying special attention to your molars, taking the time to brush every side of each one, and checking for any debris you missed. If you’re struggling to reach all of each tooth, speak with a trusted dentist or dental hygienist about techniques or implements that might help.

If your teeth are showing signs of inadequate brushing, visit the Dental Clinic of Onalaska in Wisconsin. Their compassionate and kind team offers an impressive range of affordable dental services, including teeth whitening, sealants, extractions, implants, and more. For over 25 years, this dentist has delivered healthier smiles to the community. They accept most major insurances and care credit, but they’re willing to work with patients who are having financial difficulties. Browse services like teeth whitening online, and call (608) 783-3341 to schedule your appointment today.