The majority of people brush and floss at least twice a day. But one thing most people don’t know is the proper technique on how to go about the two. Even if you take your sweet time brushing your teeth using the wrong technique, the outcome will not be
very effective.
Good oral health goes a long way in preventing tooth decay, inflammation of the pulp, gum disease, bad breath and more. So, take the measures to do it in the right manner and time as well. This article will teach you several ways to maintain proper oral health, in regards to brushing and flossing.
Brushing
1. Brush your teeth at least twice daily
It’s advisable to brush after every meal. Take your time and do it properly.
2. Use recommended teeth cleaning gadgets
A fluoride based toothpaste and soft bristled or electric toothbrush are known for effective teeth cleaning. Dentists highly recommend them.
3. Use proper brushing technique
Aim at the area joining teeth to the gum surface, hold the toothbrush on a slightly angled position ( around 45°) and rub the surface of the teeth in forward and backward motion. Remember to cover the outside, inside and chewing surface of your teeth as well as the tongue.
4. Proper storage
Thoroughly rinse toothbrush with hot or running tap water before and after every use. After rinsing, you should place your toothbrush in an upright position. This allows it to air-dry. Again, toothbrushes should not be stored in closed, moist, dark, enclosed areas like in containers, drawers or cabinets. The poor air circulation encourages bacteria and mold growths to form on toothbrush surface.
5. Regular toothbrush replacement
Three to four months is considered proper timing to invest in a new toothbrush or you can purchase it earlier if the bristles become worn-out and frayed.
Flossing
Flossing is extremely vital because of the difficulty obtained to reach tight spaces between the teeth and areas under the gum line.
Here are a few and easy guidelines on how to floss properly
1. Be gentle
Carefully guide the floss between the teeth and start rubbing it back and forth. Upon reaching the gum line, curve it against the hard surface of the teeth and move it up and down. Repeat process on the rest of the teeth.
2. One tooth at a time
Direct to specific teeth spaces, using up and down motion, rub the teeth spaces and progress systematically to the next space. Do not skip any tooth space.
Experts have advised as long as the proper techniques are observed, it really does not matter whether you brush or floss fast. So take your time and do it correctly.