Brushing twice a day is important to good oral health, but when and how to brush is also a critical factor. Dr. Ryan Caudill and Dr. Angela McNeight are going to share the do’s and don’ts of brushing your teeth, so read on and see which things you are doing right or wrong.
The Do’s of Brushing Your Teeth
Follow these brushing and flossing rules in order to get the best results for your teeth and gums. Our first do’s involve the brush and toothpaste as you need the proper tools, then we’ll go into the how and when.
- Use a toothbrush that is properly sized for your mouth and that is soft-bristled. A hard bristle brush can damage your gums and cause recession (the opposite of what you want for your smile).
- Your toothpaste should be a fluoride paste or gel, as this element helps to both prevent and reverse the early stages of tooth decay.
- Replace that toothbrush every three months or when the bristles become worn. Maybe schedule a calendar alert for yourself and replace your entire household’s brushes on a regular basis.
- Do keep that toothbrush head dry in between uses. (You can even have two – a morning and an evening brush).
- Do brush twice a day for two minutes. Make sure to reach all areas of the tooth surfaces…and don’t forget to brush your tongue!
- Brush after eating candy or sweets in addition to your regular brushing schedule. If you can’t brush, rinse your mouth with mouthwash or water.
- Do floss once a day to remove plaque and food from between the teeth.
- Do use the special toothpaste provided by Caudill Orthodontics every night as you were instructed the day you started treatment with us. It will help prevent cavities from forming while you sleep.
The Don’ts of Brushing Your Teeth
Avoid these teeth brushing dont’s, and your smile will thank you.
- Don’t brush with a hard-bristled toothbrush (see the Do’s).
- Don’t share your toothbrush with anyone, as germs and disease are also shared.
- Don’t forget to rinse. This gets rid of all the bacteria and debris you just removed and prevents it from re-depositing onto the tooth surfaces or between teeth.
- Don’t brush right after drinking acidic foods or beverages. The acids soften the tooth structure at a microscopic level and make them more susceptible to damage from the brushing. So, give them time to re-harden. A couple hours is sufficient.
- Don’t forget to see a professional. A dental visit every six months (or on the schedule determined by your dentist) is very important. Your dentist will examine your teeth and soft tissues for problems and your hygienist is the only one that can remove plaque once it hardens into tartar.
Please share these tips with your friends and family. Proper brushing and flossing is very important in the fight against cavities and gum disease. Keeping your teeth properly cared for and paying attention to good oral health is just as important during orthodontic treatment as it is before or after. If you have any questions about orthodontics, including Invisalign treatment contact us today. If you would like to schedule a free consultation in Melbourne or Merritt Island, FL just fill out our online form.
