Brushing Your Teeth
Tooth brushing is crucial for oral health and a good regime should be adopted at a very early age. Dentists recommend that you brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice daily to ensure that bacteria in the form of plaque is controlled. Plaque tries to attach itself to the enamel on your teeth and feeds on sugars present in the food and drink that you consume. If plaque build up is not controlled by a good tooth brushing regime the bacteria will multiply and produce acids which erode the enamel on your teeth. Tooth brushing should be complimented by dental flossing or using interdental brushes.
Ideally you should brush your teeth before breakfast and just before you go to bed. It is not advised to brush straight after a meal as acids in food and drink can soften the tooth enamel which will be worn away by brushing. Your saliva will neutralise the acid so it is advised that you wait at least an hour and then brush.
Dentists recommend that you use a fluoride toothpaste and never share a tooth brush as this can cause the spread of any infection. You should choose a tooth brush that you are comfortable with but you can ask your dentist to recommend one if you are unsure. Generally a medium or soft bristled brush is suitable for most people. Electric tooth brushes with oscillating or rotating heads are great for reducing plaque which helps to control gum disease.
Instructions For Tooth Brushing
The British Dental Health Foundation gives the following advice on how to brush your teeth:
- Hold the head of your toothbrush against your teeth with the bristle tips at a 45 degree angle to the gum line. Move the brush in small circular movements several times on every surface of each tooth.
- Brush the outer surfaces of each tooth upper and lower keeping the bristles angled against the gum line.
- Use the same method on the inside surfaces of all your teeth.
- Brush the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth tilt the brush vertically and make several small circular strokes with the front part of the brush.
- Brushing your tongue will freshen your breath and clean your mouth by removing bacteria.