In this article, we aim to share crucial information on brushing your teeth properly and improving general oral health. As a dental practice, we have significant experience in this area, witnessing firsthand the issues caused by ineffective cleaning techniques and practices. This guide aims to help show you the most effective cleaning practices and the latest insights to maintain optimum oral health and clean, shiny teeth.
Why Brush Your Teeth?
Not only does brushing your teeth feel good, but there are also many associated benefits. Brushing your teeth helps remove foreign particles caused by food and drinks, creating a build up of plaque that, over time, will damage your teeth if left untreated. In addition, plaque is also a cause of gum disease, which can cause inflammation, pain and issues with your teeth.
Removing food and bacteria helps to keep your mouth clean and minimise bacterial build up. It will also help to keep your teeth looking white and shiny by removing staining and marks.
In addition, poor oral hygiene has been associated with several adverse health conditions. These include heart disease, lung infections, diabetes, dementia and systemic issues such as kidney disease.
How Often Should I Brush My Teeth?
The consensus is to brush your teeth at least twice a day, making sure that you clean all your teeth and spend at least two minutes on each clean. It is essential to clean all over your teeth, especially areas continuously used to chew foods. Cleaning your teeth after eating is often advisable, especially if the food is high in sugar or acids. This general advice is endorsed by the NHS.
Different Toothbrush Types
There are many toothbrush types, some created for specific purposes and needs. Traditionally, a toothbrush consists of a handle (usually made of plastic) with bristles at the end. The bristle types are often soft, medium, or hard. There are also toothbrushes in these ranges that target children. They have smaller heads to make them easy to use and often softer bristles, making them less harsh to the teeth and gums.
More recently, electric toothbrushes have become available. They can have heads that rotate and oscillate. According to the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, they are more effective in removing plaque than regular toothbrushes.
There are also specialised toothbrushes, enabling effective cleaning around braces and others designed to clean along the gum line and between the teeth.
Depending upon your oral health, budget, and preferences will determine whether the toothbrush is right for you.
When To Change Your Toothbrush Or Head?
The British Dental Association (BDA), like the American Dental Association, recommends replacing your toothbrush or head at least every three months. Other key indicators that suggest it is time for a change:
- When the bristles look worn out or ineffective.
- If your teeth do not feel or look as clean as they usually do after brushing them.
- Sometimes, the toothbrush might start to smell or look dirty.
- If you have been unwell, this is even more important if it is contagious, as it could make you ill again.
It is worth noting that we all brush our teeth differently. Some people brush their teeth for two minutes, whilst others brush for five minutes more excessively, resulting in earlier wear and tear. It is often quite noticeable when it is time for a change.
Techniques For Brushing Teeth
There are many teeth brushing techniques, such as the Bass, Stillman, Modified Stillman, and Fones techniques. Regardless of your technique, the key to success is brushing for at least two minutes, using toothpaste with fluoride, not using too much pressure that will damage your teeth and gums, and replacing brushes or heads once worn out.
Important Role Of Flossing
Brushing your teeth is great for cleaning the tooth's surfaces; however, it doesn't always clean between your teeth and gums. By flossing, you help clean surface areas that are not accessible by regular brushing. Flossing will help improve your oral hygiene, reduce plaque build up, help keep your breath fresh and improve the health of your gums.
Include Regular Checkups
As much as brushing your teeth will help improve your overall oral health, you should also have regular dental checkups to ensure there are no underlying issues and that preventative care can be undertaken. If you have any questions, would like further information, or would like to make a booking, get in touch anytime.