A Guide to Properly Brush Teeth

Unless you’ve been living underneath a rock for a while, you are most likely familiar with how often you should be brushing your teeth (twice a day, in case you forgot!). However, do you know if you are properly brushing your teeth? Brushing your teeth twice a day isn’t going to do much for your oral health if you are using the wrong tools or doing it improperly. So today, MiraBella Smiles is providing a guide to properly brushed teeth. We hope you learn something!

Selecting the Proper Toothbrush

When it comes to selecting a toothbrush these days, there are a lot of options! Both electric and manual along with soft, medium and hard bristles. So how exactly do you decide?

An electric toothbrush can be a great oral hygiene tool for anyone; due to their design, they are great at getting in between teeth and tend to provide a better overall cleaning than a manual brush. For anyone with mobility issues, an electric toothbrush is recommended to ensure you properly brush every day.

When it comes to selecting a manual toothbrush, there are a few things to keep in mind. You should always select a brush with high-quality and soft-bristles. While it may seem like a good idea to buy a cheap toothbrush, you probably won’t get the same level of cleanliness as a better brand.

Replacing Your Toothbrush

At our Cypress dental office, we recommend replacing your toothbrush every 3 months. However, if you notice it is becoming worn, or you have recently been sick, you should replace it sooner.

Proper Brushing Technique

When it comes to achieving optimal oral hygiene, proper brushing technique is extremely important. Want to make sure you are properly brushing? Follow these helpful brushing technique tips:

  • Brushing hard can wear away tooth enamel and irritate the gums, always brush gently.
  • Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle with your gums.
  • Brush in small, gentle, circular motions.
  • Brush each quadrant (top right, top left, bottom right, bottom left) for 30 seconds.
  • Be sure to brush every tooth, even your back teeth!