Cleaning your teeth is so important for oral and overall health. Many people know the basics, but not everyone knows the proper tooth brushing techniques. To make the most out of brushing your teeth every morning and night in Southlake, TX, follow these simple techniques and tips from Smiles by Martin.
- Size it out = When brushing your teeth, one of the first things you do is place toothpaste on the brush. Many Southlake, TX patients load up their brush with excess toothpaste, often without even realizing. Smiles by Martin recommends using only a pea sized drop of toothpaste. This is because too much toothpaste can pose many problems. For example, the extra abrasion toothpaste adds can lead to damages to the tooth structure. Plus, the more toothpaste, the more foam build up and increased frequency of spitting. This can be uncomfortable and messy, causing patients to stop brushing sooner than they should. So, just placing a small amount on the tip of the brush should be enough to properly clean your teeth.
- Out with the old, in with the new = Many patients don’t change their brushes as often as they should, or in some cases at all! Replacing your toothbrush is also essential to proper brushing, and Dr. Martin reminds patients visiting the dentist in Southlake, Texas to replace your toothbrush every 3 months, or when it starts to show signs of wear and tear. For example, frayed or matted bristles are a tell tale sign that the brush needs to be replaced. Additionally, it may be easier to buy many toothbrushes and store them in your home, so you can replace yours whenever you need to. And, if you can’t remember how long it has been since you got a new brush, Dr. Martin says it may be a good idea to mark the calendar with a note or sticker on the date of the next change to ensure that you do not forget!
- Add in mouthwash = Mouthwash is generally viewed as an optional additive – something that makes your breath fresher, but is not essential. While it is true that you can achieve good oral hygiene in Southlake, TX even without mouthwash, mouthwash can help make your oral health much better, and in a very simple way. Add mouthwash in to your routine by giving it a quick, 30-second wish through your mouth after you have completed your brushing routine. Dr. Martin also reminds you to select a mouthwash that contains fluoride. By using this rinse, you can help fight cavities, periodontal disease, and canker sores, all while keeping longer lasting fresh breath.
- Don’t forget the floss = Smiles by Martin has said it over and over again! Floss is crucial to the maintenance of a healthy mouth. But still, many patients tend to skip this step or find excuses such as ‘my teeth are too close together’ or ‘I don’t even get food stuck in my teeth!’ To ensure the ability to floss, try purchasing a waxed floss that will glide between tight spaces, or use pre-cut plastic flossers that will give you a good handle to use to wedge the floss into the right space. And, keep in mind, that flossing does much more than just remove unwanted food excess. It prevents oral disease, keeps gums and teeth healthy, and helps avoid cavities in Southlake, TX.
By following these simple steps, you can take your brushing routine from blah to bright. Keeping your mouth properly brushed will ensure pristine oral health near Southlake, TX, as well as fewer dental emergencies. If you would like to learn more about proper brushing, Contact Smiles by Martin at (817) 481-1041. Our team will be happy to help you get a better smile easily!