The health of teeth and gums is directly related to proper oral hygiene. Daily brushing helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease and maintain fresh breath. How to properly care for your teeth to keep them strong and healthy for many years?
To keep your teeth clean, dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day: in the morning after breakfast and in the evening before bed. This helps remove food debris and bacterial plaque that accumulates during the day and can cause most dental diseases.
For high-quality cleaning of teeth, it is enough to apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to the brush. Excess does not provide additional benefits, but may increase the risk of swallowing excess.
It is better to start brushing your teeth from the outside. It is recommended to hold the brush at a 45° angle to the gum line. Make gentle circular movements, covering two to three teeth at a time.
When moving to the inside, make short movements. For the front teeth, you can use vertical movements with the tip of the brush.
Clean the chewing surface with horizontal movements to remove food debris.
Don't forget to clean your tongue. Lightly brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
It is recommended to brush your teeth for 2 minutes (30 seconds for each half of each jaw). To train yourself to thirty-second intervals, you can use a timer; electric toothbrushes often have such timers built in for convenience; an example is the Vega VT-600 Electric Sonic Toothbrush, which pauses for a second every 30 seconds.
At the last stage of brushing, rinse your mouth with water. It is also advisable to use mouthwash after brushing. During the cleaning process, it is also recommended to use interdental hygiene products (floss, interdental brushes and irrigators)
After cleaning, rinse the brush thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining paste and plaque. Store your toothbrush upright and out of closed containers to prevent bacteria from growing.
Common Mistakes When Brushing Your Teeth
- Pressing your teeth too hard can damage your enamel and gums.
- Neglecting the back teeth - give them as much attention as the front ones.
- Incorrect frequency of brushing - once a day is not enough.
Proper brushing is the foundation of oral health. Follow the recommendations described, and your smile will please you and those around you for many years.