Your dentist has probably told you that it’s important to brush your teeth at least twice a day. However, the way you brush your teeth is just as important as how often you brush. Here are a few basic steps you can take at home to ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy.

Do:

Choose the right toothbrush.

Your toothbrush should fit comfortably in your mouth to ensure you can easily reach all surfaces of your teeth. It should also have soft bristles to prevent damage to teeth and gums. Your dentist can make a recommendation if you’re not sure which brush is right for you.

Replace your toothbrush often.  

Look for a replacement brush every three months or so. If you’ve recently experienced an illness, consider switching to a new brush right now. Germs can remain on a brush, which can lead to extended illness.

Brush for at least two minutes.

If you’re not brushing for at least two minutes per session, your teeth may not be completely clean. Break it down to 30 seconds per area: upper, lower, front, and back. 

Don’t:

Brush harshly.

While you might think that brushing your teeth more intensely gets them cleaner, this is not the case. In fact, brushing too hard causes enamel to become damaged and can also harm the gums as well. Use gentle, even motions when brushing. Ask your dentist if you aren’t sure about the efficiency of your brushing technique.

Share your brush.

Sharing your brush also shares your germs. Never share brushes, even with a loved one, and pick up a new one if you’ve lost or misplaced yours.

Skip dental checkups.

Dental exams serve a few different functions. A professional cleaning from your dentist removes hard to reach plaque and bacteria. It also allows your dentist to identify any developing issues, such as cavities. Checkups should occur once or twice a year to make sure your smile is healthy.

Patients of Wheeler Family Dental are privy to all sorts of helpful information on at-home dental care. Located in Chesterfield, MO, these dentists offer a wide range of services. Along with preventative care like checkups, cleanings, and sealants, they also provide restorative procedures. This includes fillings, extractions, crowns, bridges, and dentures. They also utilize a non-surgical root canal option, which allows you to preserve a tooth that’s been damaged by decay or injury. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, please call (314) 576-3737 today. You can also visit the website to prepare for your first appointment.