Many people seem confused by this question. How could you not be brushing your teeth correctly? However, often people aren’t aware that without proper cleaning, your teeth can still develop cavities or gingivitis. How do you know if you’re brushing your teeth correctly?
Frequently Asked Questions About Brushing Teeth
Question: How often should I be using a toothbrush?
Answer: You should clean your teeth twice each day, once when you first wake up and again before you go to sleep. Some people prefer to also brush after lunch, which you can do, but make sure at a minimum you’re doing so twice a day.
Question: Does it matter how long I brush?
Answer: Yes! The American Dental Association recommends cleaning your teeth for two minutes each time. We agree! Any less, and you could still leave your smile vulnerable to tooth decay and even gingivitis (the inflammation that can eventually lead to gum disease).
Question: How do I choose the right toothbrush?
Answer: Whether you use manual or electric isn’t a big deal, as long as you brush properly either can help you. However, we do suggest looking for the ADA (American Dental Association) seal-of-approval on the packaging. We also urge patients to select soft bristles in lieu of hard or medium. If you brush too roughly, hard or medium bristles could end up damaging your protective layer of tooth enamel.
Question: Should I also be flossing?
Answer: Yes! Even more important than brushing, flossing helps remove the food stuck between teeth that neither tooth brush bristles or rinsing with water/mouthwash can remove. You should floss every day before you go to bed. If you have any questions about caring for your smile from home, then please contact our office today.
DO YOU NEED TO SEE YOUR DENTIST?
At Vi Mai-Truong, DDS, we can see you for a checkup and cleaning to help you maintain good oral health. For our patients who don’t speak English, our office is fluent in both Spanish and Vietnamese. To schedule an appointment, call our Garland, TX office today at (972) 530-0552.
