Over the past several decades, a significant shift has occurred in the dental field. The focus of the field has moved from treating dental health concerns to preventing oral health issues. The advances in preventive dentistry, better and more affordable home care instruments, and more insurance providers covering preventive care 100%, allows more people than ever to retain healthy, natural smiles for life. At Amberly Dental in Waverley, we love having the opportunity to care for our patients at routine exams and cleanings, but typically, we only see your smile twice a year. That means that the most important preventive dentistry happens at home with daily brushing and flossing. Following a few basic tips or making minor changes to your brushing technique may significantly improve your oral health.
Tooth Brushing Basics
Most of us have been brushing our teeth since we were very young, but it never hurts to get back to the basics. When it comes to thoroughly brushing teeth, keep the following in mind:
- Choose the right tools – Always use a soft bristled tooth brush. Firm or hard bristled brushes are unlikely to be any more effective at cleaning teeth, but are much more likely to damage soft tissue. Replace your toothbrush four times each year or whenever you notice worn bristles. Use toothpaste that has the ADA seal of approval for best results.
- 2 + 2 = dental health – Brush teeth two times each day for two minutes at a time. In order to thoroughly remove stuck on plaque and bacteria, it is essential to brush each tooth for at least ten seconds on all surfaces (outside, inside, and top). At least two minutes is necessary to do this, but it never hurts to brush a little longer.
- Toothbrush storage and cleaning – Store your toothbrush upright and uncovered. This allows the bristles to dry fully between uses preventing the growth of mold and bacteria. For extra sanitation, soak your bristles in antimicrobial mouthwash for a few minutes once a week.
The Bass Brushing Method
There are many effective tooth brushing techniques, but perhaps the simplest, most frequently recommended is the Bass Method. If you want to update your brushing technique, consider using this effective style:
- Place toothbrush bristles at a 45 degree angle to teeth where the teeth and gums meet.
- Without moving the bristles from the tooth, wiggle the brush back and forth in a “vibrating” motion. This technique mimics the motion produced by electric brushes.
- Continue the back and forth motion for ten seconds per tooth and tooth service (inside, outside, and biting surface).
- Gently brush tongue and gums. Then, rinse.
Find Out More from the General Dentist Waverly, NE residents Prefer
Want to learn more about best practices in at-home oral hygiene or schedule your next dental checkup and teeth cleaning? Call the skilled, knowledgeable Waverly dentist and team at Amberly Dental. We look forward to helping you and your family achieve ultimate oral health.