Brushing is vital to your oral health, but are you doing it the right way? Proper techniques go a long way in protecting your teeth and gums from bacteria and long-term problems. In addition to flossing and regular visits to the dentist, you can take a proactive approach to your dental care by simply improving your brushing method. Here’s what you should know.

How to Brush Your Teeth the Right Way

1. Clean for Two Minutes

While it’s easy enough to glide the brush over your teeth, it’s more effective when you take a concentrated approach. The American Dental Association recommends brushing at least twice a day for two minutes at a time. If it helps, divide your mouth into quadrants and spend 30 seconds cleaning the outer and inner surfaces of each, as well as areas you chew with, such as your back teeth.

2. Move Your Brush Properly

While going back and forth along your teeth is common, it’s not the most effective way to remove the particles and plaque that linger in your mouth. Accomplish this by moving your brush in a rolling motion away from your gums so that the bristles glide over your teeth. This will help sweep the debris downward more efficiently.

3. Brush the Back Surfaces

If you’re in a rush, you might not prioritize the backs of your teeth as much as you do the fronts. Dentists stress running the brush in an upward motion to the gum line and then flicking the brush downward over the surface of the top row of your teeth. You should also do this vice versa on the bottom teeth to achieve a deep clean.

4. Don’t Forget the Tongue

It’s easy to overlook this step, but it’s important to brush your tongue, the cheeks, and the roof of the mouth after cleaning your teeth and gums. All of these areas can harbor bacteria and particles that contribute to buildup and odors that are difficult to control. Use your brush to go over these areas in a circular fashion gently.

5. Avoid Brushing Too Hard

If you brush your teeth with too much force, you may notice a gradual increase in sensitivity that leads to frequent visits to the dentist. That’s because aggressive cleaning can cause gums to recede, wear down the enamel, and even contribute to mild discoloration. Use a light hand and opt for a brush with softer bristles rather than hard ones.

If you’re seeking a reliable dentist in Ellisville, MO, visit Arrow Dental Care. These professionals are proud to offer many services designed to improve the health of your teeth and gums, including teeth whitening, extraction, Invisalign, and emergency dentistry. Visit the website to find out more about how they can help you, or call (636) 220-7770 to schedule an appointment.