To maintain your oral health, it’s important to have an at-home oral hygiene routine. If you don’t care for your teeth and gums properly, it could impact your overall health. At Eriks Dental Group, our dentist in Boynton Beach, FL teaches our patients oral hygiene tips, including how to pick the right toothbrush. Regular dental exams and teeth cleanings help make sure that your teeth and gums stay looking and feeling their best all the time.
Choosing the Right Toothbrush
When you’re in the market for a toothbrush, follow these tips for finding the best toothbrush for your oral health:
- Choose which type you prefer: Whether electric or manual, choose a toothbrush that suits your preference.
- Look for the ADA seal of approval: Look for this backing from the American Dental Association to ensure your brush is effective and safe.
- Select bristle type: Our dentist, Dr. Ty Eriks, recommends a soft-bristle brush for effectively removing plaque and food debris. Medium or hard brushes can be too hard on your tooth’s enamel or gums.
- Select toothbrush head: Small-head brushes reach the back of the mouth best.
During your annual dental exam, our dentist can give you advice on choosing the best toothbrush for your oral health.
How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?
Always replace your toothbrush after being sick. Otherwise, replace it when it comes to looking frayed or after three months, whichever comes first. At Eriks Dental Group, we suggest making a note on your calendar or on your phone when you start using one and set a reminder to replace it.
Tips For Brushing Your Teeth Correctly
The American Dental Association recommends that the teeth are brushed at least twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. To begin brushing, place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle while focusing on your gum line. Move your toothbrush back and forth gently to brush all sides of your teeth (inside, outside, and the biting edge). Brush each of the four quadrants of your mouth for at least 30 seconds each. Finish the process by brushing your tongue as this is where harmful bacteria remain.
How NOT to Brush Your Teeth?
There are many ways that you can brush your teeth incorrectly. Avoid them for the best possible oral health:
- Using the wrong toothbrush: Always use a toothbrush with soft bristles that can move freely in your mouth.
- Not brushing long enough: Brush for at least two minutes at least twice a day.
- Brushing hard: Don’t brush your teeth with too much force as it can cause swollen and bleeding gums. Because plaque is soft, you don’t need to brush hard to remove it.
- Brushing the wrong way: Don’t brush back and forth. Place your brush on the gum line and brush in a circular motion.
- Brushing immediately after eating: Our dentist suggests waiting to brush at least 20 minutes after you finish eating. This is because acids are still sitting in your mouth. When you brush, you’re using that abrasive left on your teeth, which can cause erosion.
Learn How to Choose the Right Toothbrush and Brush Correctly
At Eriks Dental Group, we teach our patients oral hygiene tips that help them to maintain their oral health from home. Brushing and flossing are important as they help remove harmful bacteria, leftover food, and plaque. When these things are left in the mouth, it can lead to gingivitis. To schedule an appointment for a comprehensive dental exam and teeth cleaning with Dr. Eriks, call 561-733-4004 today!