Just because we brush every day (often twice a day) doesn’t mean we’re doing it right! Studies have shown that there are lots of people out there who have bad brushing habits. Here are some tips to help you get it right.
- Don’t brush too hard. You can actually hurt your teeth and gums this way.
- A thorough brushing takes two minutes or more — whether you use an electric toothbrush or a traditional one. Set a timer if you need to. Most people think they’re brushing long enough and they just aren’t. Those “Tooth Tunes” brushes are great for this — they give you two minutes of music as long as you’re actually brushing.
- Divide your time between all areas of the mouth. Some people find it easier to brush the side of the mouth opposite from the hand where they hold the toothbrush. Front teeth often get a better cleaning than back teeth. Divide your mouth into sections if you have to: back left top, back left bottom, front top, front bottom, back right top, back right bottom.
- Change your toothbrush every three months — more often if the bristles start to bend outward. Plus, old and worn toothbrushes can harbor bacteria that can go back into your mouth with every use.
- Ask your dentist about the appropriate bristle strength. My dentist has me use an extra-soft (usually found only in children’s sizes) toothbrush because I have some gum damage from brushing too hard. When I try to use harder bristles, it can make my gums bleed!
- Look for a brush with bristles of varying heights. This design helps you clean between your teeth and in the little pockets between tooth and gum.
- Think about switching to an electric toothbrush if you lack hand strength and dexterity for manual brushing. However, studies have shown that traditional toothbrushes clean just as well as the electric ones in most cases.
- Don’t forget to floss! This is the ONLY way to reliably clean between the teeth.
There are lots of named brushing techniques out there. You don’t need to study dental science to find a method that works for you! If you are getting good results from your current routine, stick with it. If you’re experiencing dental problems, talk to your dental or hygienist for some more tips for better brushing.