BRUSHING
What
Is the Right Way to Brush?
Proper brushing
takes at least two minutes — that’s right, 120 seconds! Most adults do not come
close to brushing that long. To get a feel for the time involved, try using a stopwatch.
To properly brush your teeth, use short, gentle strokes, paying extra attention
to the gumline,
hard-to-reach back teeth and areas around fillings,
crowns
or other restoration. Concentrate on thoroughly cleaning
each section as follows:
- Clean the
outer surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth - Clean the
inner surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth - Clean the
chewing surfaces - For
fresher breath, be sure to brush your tongue, too
What
Type of Toothbrush Should I Use?
Most dental
professionals agree that a soft-bristled brush is best for removing plaque
and debris from your teeth. Small-headed brushes are also preferable, since
they can better reach all areas of the mouth, including hard-to-reach back
teeth. For many, a powered toothbrush is a good alternative. It can do a better
job of cleaning teeth, particularly for those who have difficulty brushing or
who have limited manual dexterity.
The American Dental Association does not endorse
either a manual or electric
toothbrush. In fact, electric and manual toothbrushes
can have the same effectiveness if used properly. Electric toothbrushes do have
a better maneuvering power; they can get around the gums and sides of teeth
better. Electric toothbrushes are also an agent in the removal of plague.
However, the decision-making factors for electric or manual would be in cost
and features that appeal to you.
Manual
Toothbrush: The manual toothbrush is the teeth-brushing method most are
accustomed to. The manual toothbrush has a plastic handle with nylon bristles
on the head of the toothbrush. The manual toothbrush comes in many bristle
styles and could have some special features.
The manual toothbrush can come in the
following formats: crisscrossed, extra-long, multi-level bristles; polished,
rounded bristle tips; textured bristles; cupped-bristle to enhance whitening;
erogonmic handles with special grips; tapered or angled brush head; gum
stimulators; and tongue cleaner pads.
Electric Toothbrush: The
electric or power toothbrush is part of the new wave of technology. The
toothbrush has a rechargeable battery case that can be plugged into any outlet.
Many of the electric toothbrush features are hi-tech and could promote better
brushing habits.
Some of the hi-tech features of the electric
toothbrush include: various brushing modes, some for sensitive teeth or
whitening and gum massaging features; pressure signals to indicate when
brushing too hard; timers
to time the length of brushing each quadrant of the mouth; digital reminders to
alert when it is time to change toothbrush head; oscillating-rotating or sonic
technology; and compatible brushing heads to choose the best bristle type for
each person.
How
Important is the Toothpaste I Use?
It is important
that you use a toothpaste that’s right for you. Today there is a wide variety
of toothpaste designed for many conditions, including cavities, gingivitis,
tartar,
stained teeth and sensitivity. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist
which toothpaste is right for you.
How
Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?
You should replace your toothbrush when it begins to show wear, or every three
months, whichever comes first. It is also very important to change toothbrushes
after you’ve had a cold, since the bristles can collect germs that can lead to
re-infection.