Brushing is a technique that needs to be performed perfectly without missing out on any tooth. Brushing techniques and the kind of brush that has to be used are some of the nitty-gritty that is the essential part of brushing. Let us explore in detail.
Proper Brushing Techniques
Brushing has to be done on the outer surface of the teeth which is visible to us conspicuously, the chewing surface and on the inner surface which is not visible from outside.
Brushing has to be not so hard and not so soft. That is the mantra.
The outer surface can be brushed in a circular motion.
You can also brush in such a way that you start with the gums and brush the teeth in upper motion for the lower teeth line. This motion pushes out the food particle that is caught between the crevice of the gum and teeth. Similarly, repeat this for the upper teeth line. Here it will be a lower motion. You can do this type of brushing for both the inner and outer surface.
To brush the chewing surface, you have to move the brush in front and back motion slowly.
Brush for a minimum of two minutes every time. Brush twice a day, when you wake up and when you go to the bed.
Tips on Tooth Brushes
Make sure you buy toothbrushes that have soft bristles. The hard ones can end up damaging your enamel.
You have to replace your toothbrush every three months.
Do not keep your toothbrush inside the bathroom. Keep them at least ten feet away from the bathroom. This is to prevent bacteria from the lavatory residing on your toothbrush.
Place them standing by the handle of the toothbrush holder. Let the head of the toothbrush not be placed down.
Do not cover the toothbrush. Leave it free. When they are free and not covered, they do not remain damp. Dampness can induce breeding of bacteria and so avoid keeping them enclosed.
Do not just brush – Floss and Rinse too
Yes. Just brushing alone is not sufficient. You have to floss your teeth twice a day. Flossing is always done before brushing. Brushing cannot remove the food particles that are caught between the teeth. Only the nylon fibers of the floss can reach the small crevice between the teeth to clean them up.
Rinsing with recommended mouthwash has to be done after flossing and brushing. Proper rinsing is very effective in removing most of the small food particles that are caught in between the teeth and the gap between the teeth and gum. If not for mouthwash, you can also rinse with plain water or lukewarm salt water.
