Proper Brushing Techniques
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| 1. | Choose a soft-bristled, average size toothbrush. If your toothbrush is too large, you are likely to miss hard to reach areas in the mouth, and if the bristles are too hard then it could damage your gums or the enamel on your teeth. |
| 2. | Tilt your brush to a 45-degree angle to the gum line. The ADA (American Dental Association) recommends starting at a different tooth every time you brush to ensure that the attention you give your teeth is balanced. |
| 3. | Be gentle and use short, circular strokes. Studies show that motorized toothbrushes are more effective than regular toothbrushes because of their automated circular movements. Make sure to be gentle so as not to damage the enamel of your teeth. |
| 4. | Brush from top to bottom.
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| 5. | Wait thirty minutes after eating. Right after you eat the acidity levels of your mouth are quite intense. During this period of acidity, your enamel is vulnerable and can be easily damaged by your toothbrush. |
| 6. | Do not forget to brush the inner chewing surfaces. |
| 7. | Make sure to clean your tongue. Use a tongue scraper or even your toothbrush to remove bacteria and freshen your breath. |
| 8. | Brush twice a day for two minutes at a time. The ADA recommends only brushing two times a day. If you try to do more than that you could be damaging your enamel. You may want to start using a stopwatch. Studies show that the average individual does not brush their teeth long enough. |
| 9. | Replace your toothbrush every three months. The accepted expiration date on a toothbrush is three months or 200 uses. Why? Because this is usually when the bristles of your brush become frayed and lose their shape. When this happens, the brush is not as effective as it needs to be. |
| 10. | Make sure to floss. If you do not floss, you are missing 40 percent your teeths surface area. |
| 11. | Be sure to use fluoride. It is important to use fluoride, which repairs and remineralizes your teeth. |
| 12. | Rinse with mouthwash. Rinsing with water can wash away the fluoride and hinder the remineralization process. |
| 13. | Remember to sterilize your toothbrush. Did you know that it is estimated that 50 percent of toothbrushes have fecal molecules? |
Serving Salem Keizer Community since 1987
We provide dental services for the entire family from children to older adults. Our entire team of caring Doctors, hygienists and support staff pride ourselves on a high level of patient care.
Using the latest in modern dental technology our services range from sealants to complex implant surgery. Our goal is a comfortable experience for our patients with beautiful results. Smile more :-) Call today (971) 600-0211 |
Located in the heart of the beautiful Willamette Valley.
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It should go without saying that to maintain a healthy smile you have to brush your teeth. Most of us have been brushing our teeth the same way since we were small children, and so it may surprise you to know that many of us are doing it wrong. 
