Are You Looking After Your Teeth Correctly?

You already know you need to brush twice a day for two minutes each time and that you must floss once a day, but is your technique up to scratch?

Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard

This is a very common mistake as using too much pressure when brushing can wear away your tooth enamel and your gums. You don’t need to brush very hard to get your teeth thoroughly clean as gentle circular motions should remove plaque and food.

Are You Holding Your Toothbrush Properly?

Next time you brush your teeth, make sure you hold your toothbrush at a 45° angle to your gums. Angling your toothbrush slightly will allow the bristles to reach right down to the gum line and just below your gums, so that when you brush you remove more plaque.

Are You Using the Right Toothbrush?

Ideally, you need a brush with soft to medium bristles to thoroughly clean your teeth without damaging your mouth. Also, make sure the brush head is small enough to reach right to the back of your mouth. If necessary, you can even purchase a child’s toothbrush.

Don’t Forget to Floss

The contact points in between your teeth account for approximately one third of your tooth surfaces and plaque and food debris often become trapped in these areas. Flossing is essential for keeping these areas clean, reducing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Some people lack the dexterity needed to floss properly or simply cannot use floss. If this applies to you, there are alternatives to try of which include interdental brushes and electric water flossers. It is important to find something that will suit you and which fits into your regular oral care routine.

If you would like some practical advice on how to improve your brushing and flossing, then our friendly team would be delighted to help you.