Our dentists at Guildford Heights Dental Centre in Surrey want you to achieve the healthiest smile possible! If you're ready to take your oral hygiene routine to the next level, here are three a few tips to help you brush better.
Stop Using the Wrong Toothbrush!
To do a great job cleaning your teeth you need to begin with the right tools. Whether you prefer a manual or electric toothbrush, be sure that your toothbrush is the right size for you. Your toothbrush should easily reach all the areas of your mouth, and be comfortable to use.
Choose a toothbrush with a smaller brush head that will allow better access to those hard to reach areas at the very back or your mouth or behind your front teeth.
Go for soft bristles, hard bristles could damage your delicate gum tissue. Speak to your dentist to find out which type of bristles are best for your teeth. If you suffer from sensitive teeth or show signs of enamel erosion, a toothbrush with extra-soft bristles may be a better option for you.
When shopping for a new toothbrush take some time to find a one that fits comfortably in your hand. You're more likely to brush your teeth for the full recommended two minutes if your toothbrush is comfortable to use. A handle that is too long or bulky might prevent you from brushing as thoroughly as you could.
Don't Brush Too Hard!
If you brush your teeth properly, twice a day, plaque should be soft and relatively easy to remove. Brushing your teeth harder doesn't equal brushing better! Try to think of brushing your teeth as massaging your gums. Scrubbing too hard can damage delicate gum tissue. Be kind to your smile...brush your teeth and gums gently.
Don't Rush Brushing!
Did you know that you should be brushing your teeth for a full two minutes twice a day - every day! If you have never timed yourself while brushing, now is the time to start. You may be surprised at just how long two minutes is.
If you need some encouragement to help keep you brushing for the full two minutes you may want to try an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer a try. Your toothbrush timer will let you know when you have completed two minutes of brushing. If investing in a new electric toothbrush isn't for you, try timing yourself using your watch or phone until two minutes of brushing has become a regular habit.
Another helpful trick to keep you focused on brushing longer is to mentally divide your mouth into four quarters then take 30 seconds to work on each individual quadrant of your mouth. Be sure to clean the backs, fronts and tops of every tooth in each quadrant thoroughly, before moving on to the next. Once all four quadrants are sparkling clean, floss and you're done!