You’ve probably heard that you should be brushing your teeth for two minutes every morning and night. Whether this advice was read online or given to you by your family dentistry team, there are valid reasons to adhere to it. Find out more about brushing by reading this guide.

A Guide to Brushing Best Practices

Why Is Brushing for Two Minutes Recommended?

Brushing less than twice a day is consistently linked to a higher rate of tooth decay. The culprit behind tooth decay is plaque. Insufficient brushing leaves a buildup of this sticky, bacteria-rich film on your teeth, causing rot and gum disease.

Research suggests that brushing for two minutes removes nearly twice as much plaque as brushing only for one minute. Think about the many surfaces of your teeth that need brushing. You need to clean not only the chewing surfaces of your molars but also the fronts and backs of all your teeth. Two minutes of brushing every morning and night will get the job done.

What Are Some Other Brushing Tips to Remember?

Although brushing for the proper amount of time is essential, cleaning the right way is equally important. If you brush too hard, you may damage your enamel and cause your gums to recede. Most family dentistry practices recommend gentle brushing using light pressure and a soft-bristled brush. Replace your toothbrush every four months, or whenever the bristles begin to look frayed. You need the right equipment to clean teeth thoroughly.

If you’re seeking a family dentistry team to help you care for your teeth properly, turn to Kemper Pond Dental. Serving the Cincinnati, OH, community, Dr. Brent Williams has more than 20 years of dentistry experience. The team performs a broad range of dental services and specialties, including preventive and cosmetic dentistry as well as implants, root canals, and crowns and bridges. Browse through their services online, or call (513) 531-4069 to schedule an appointment.