Every single day during a routine dental cleaning, I see patients who have gingivitis, periodontal disease, excessive tartar and cavities. These patients could easily have avoided the extra costs associated with these problems if they only knew how to brush properly.
So here are some tips that will help you to keep a healthy mouth, and also keep down your dental bills.
First of all, get the right toothbrush. Make sure it is the right size for your mouth, and also make sure it has soft bristles. Hard bristles will only abrade your gums, and help to wear away the enamel on your teeth.
Next, make sure that you’re using the proper technique. You want to gently move the brush up and down at a 45 degree angle to the teeth. Don’t brush quickly across the teeth from side to side. In addition, be sure to brush your tongue to help additional remove bacteria, and keep your breath fresh.
When you brush, brush two to three times a day – after each meal is best. And be sure to brush for two minutes each time. Think of your mouth as quadrants. The top, left and right. Then the bottom, left and right. Spend 30 seconds brushing in each quadrant.
Following these tips will remove debris and stimulate your gums and tongue, ensuring that you will have and keep a healthy mouth.
Remember, your oral health can affect your entire body, and a clean mouth not only gives you a beautiful smile, it also ensures that harmful mouth bacteria will not travel through your system, keeping you healthy.
And if you have any questions, be sure to make an appointment with me, or your Charlotte dentist, to get an up-to-date evaluation of your oral health.
For more information, feel free to watch my YouTube video, How to Brush Your Teeth.
-Dr. Taj
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