The Best Brushing Technique To Keep Teeth Cavity-Free

We’re taught the importance of brushing our teeth at a young age. Chances are, you were shown how to brush your teeth by applying gentle, circular motions to keep teeth and gums strong and healthy. But now that you’re an adult, perhaps you’re wondering if those childhood techniques are still relevant in keeping your teeth cavity-free.

Nowadays, we know that brushing alone is not enough, and a proper brushing technique separates mediocre dental care with the healthiest teeth and gums possible. These are our top brushing techniques to help ensure that your teeth are clean, strong, and healthy.

Proper Brushing Technique

Proper brushing takes at least two full minutes, and most adults fall short of the two-minute mark when brushing their teeth.

To ensure a thorough clean, follow these six steps every time you brush:

1. Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums
2. Sweep or roll the brush away from the gumline – never brushing up!
3. Gently move the brush back and forth in short, tooth-wide strokes
4. Brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of your teeth
5. To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes
6. Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath

Tips For Keeping Your Mouth Healthy and Cavity-Free

Every patient’s mouth is unique, and in trade, requires a specific hygiene regimen to keep up with their mouth’s specific needs. For a healthy mouth and smile, we recommend:

Asking Your Dentist For Help 

Your dentist should be someone that you trust to help in taking care of your teeth. If you don’t trust your dentist and their advice, it’s time to find a new dentist! Ask about what they recommend for your unique teeth and discuss the areas where they see plaque buildup during your next cleaning. Areas with plaque buildup are easy to tell where you need to spend more time cleaning.

Using The Right Tools

The type of toothbrush you use is a personal choice. While some patients swear by an electric toothbrush, some prefer the simplicity of a manual toothbrush. Regardless of the type, always use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth and replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if your bristles begin to fray. A worn toothbrush can cause damage to your teeth.

Don’t Skip Flossing

Flossing your teeth daily is the best way to achieve a complete clean of your mouth. Your toothbrush can’t reach all areas of your mouth easily, and plaque can effortlessly form between your teeth, leading to cavities.

The Type of Toothpaste You Use Makes a Difference

It is essential to use toothpaste that’s a great fit for you and your smile. Many varieties of toothpaste are designed for many conditions patients often experience, including being prone to cavities, gingivitis, tartar, stained teeth, and teeth with high sensitivity. If you’re struggling with finding the best toothpaste for you and your mouth, ask us what we recommend for you at your next appointment.

A Healthy Diet Leads To Healthy Teeth

Building a well-rounded diet to stay tooth-healthy is just as important in taking care of your teeth as brushing them is. A healthy diet sets the stage for success throughout your entire body. The healthier you’re eating, the less plaque and buildup there will be to remove from your teeth when you clean them.

For a healthy smile, Try incorporating these foods into your diet:

• Cheese
• Yogurt
• Raw fruits and vegetables
• Leafy greens
• Eggs
• Water

Stay On Track To Avoid Tooth Decay

Your comfort matters when it comes to the condition of your teeth, and Hoffman Dental Care is here to help. The easier it is for you to clean your teeth, the more likely you will stay on track and avoid tooth decay. Find dental tools that you enjoy using, such as an electric toothbrush and Waterpik, to make your oral hygiene a little more fun. Schedule an appointment today and ask us for a recommendation on how your brushing technique measures up.