Brushing your teeth is an essential step in preventing plaque buildup and tooth decay, helping your smile to become brighter, healthier, and more resilient. However, dentists explain that it can be easy to develop bad habits that contribute to issues. Here are a few tips for correcting your technique for better results.

Do: 

Pick dental supplies carefully. 

When shopping for dental supplies like toothbrushes and dental floss, be on the lookout for the American Dental Association seal of approval. If products aren’t approved by the ADA, skip over them and continue your search. Additionally, look for a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush for the best chances of cleaning away leftover food particles. If you can’t find what you are looking for, ask a dentist for product recommendations. 

Set a timer. 

It can be easy to rush through the process of brushing, so set a timer on your alarm clock or smartphone for a full two minutes. Then, spend the time evenly between the four quadrants of your mouth—focusing on all sides of your teeth, including the back sides of back molars. 

Don’t:

Brush immediately after eating. 

While it may seem smart to brush immediately following a meal, doing so could whisk away enamel, since your mouth’s pH can change after eating, softening the surfaces of your teeth. Therefore, dentists recommend waiting at least 30 minutes. 

Brush too aggressively. 

While brushing, focus on not applying too much pressure. Your knuckles should never turn white during the process, and you should never brush hard enough to irritate your gums or other oral tissues. If you do, consider updating your toothbrush to a power version with a pressure sensor. 

Learning how to brush your teeth more effectively can be challenging, so turn to the team at Holly Family Dentistry, PLLC - William A. Pfeifer, DDS, in Centennial, CO, for more tips. In addition to having more than 34 years worth of experience, this family-oriented dentist also offers a range of effective in-office treatments to improve oral health. To learn more about their general dentistry services, visit them online. Or give their office a call at (303) 850-7614 to set your first appointment.