When patients brush their teeth, they may wonder if they are doing it right, as some people brush in a straight line while others use a circular motion. So, what way is the best when cleaning your pearly whites? The following information will clue you in on how to correctly brush your teeth.
How Should I Brush My Teeth so I Do So Effectively?
Don't use a line approach when brushing. Instead, hold your toothbrush so you angle the bristle 45 degrees against the surface of the teeth. Brush in small circles and concentrate on several teeth or group of teeth at a time before moving onto the next grouping. Continue on one side to another – top and bottom, then front and back. However, that being said, you can brush in straight lines on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Brushing from side to side instead of circularly can weaken the teeth or cause cracks. Therefore, you generally need to use a circular movement.
What Other Tips Do I Need?
To brush properly, you also need to make sure you are not being too aggressive. Doing so not only breaks and bends the brush bristles, it can also harm the enamel on your teeth. Plus, if you brush sideways on the outside, instead of circularly, you can form notches next to the gum. These flaws are known as abfraction lesions and can, with time, cause a good deal of erosion. Aggressive brushing also causes sensitivity and gum recession.
If you want further tips on proper brushing and flossing, we are always here to help. You should also schedule regular cleanings and exams. Call us today about setting an appointment for a cleaning and check-up. If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask. The more you know about the proper way to care for the gums and teeth, the better oral health you will experience.
Dentist Hillsboro, OR | Dental Blog - Century Dental Hillsboro, OR Jefferson Call, DMD and Dix Densley, DDS believe that the better informed their patients are, the better their decisions about dental care can be. With this blog, they hope to inform and empower our readers in their oral health. - See more Century Dental, 2831 SE Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97123 \ (971) 708-1608 \ centurydentalllc.com \ 10/29/2024 \ Tags: Dentist Hillsboro OR