If you’re not brushing your teeth the right way, you could be letting plaque build up and harden into tartar. Brushing your teeth is an important part of maintaining good oral health, but it only works when you’re doing it effectively. Here are three tips from our dental hygienists that will help you brush your teeth like a pro.
Tip 1: Brush for at least two minutes.
Brushing your teeth won’t be very effective if you’re only doing it for 30 seconds.
A good rule of thumb is 2 minutes.
In this amount of time you should be able to brush every tooth and remove as much plaque and bacteria as possible. However, depending on your toothbrush, toothpaste, and your dentist’s recommendations, that time could be a little different.
For example:
- Electric toothbrushes might require less brushing time because of the movement of the bristles.
- Based on your oral health, your dentist might recommend a different brushing time.
- Certain fluoride toothpastes require brushing for a specified time to ensure their effectiveness. Check your tube!
Tip 2: Use a Fluoride Toothpaste
If you live in a city like Flagstaff, that does not add fluoride to its tap water, you should probably be using a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps keep teeth healthy and strong by:
- Stopping plaque buildup by making it harder for bacteria to stick to teeth
- Rebuilding tooth enamel and replacing minerals lost through abrasion or dissolved by acids
Tip 3: Brush in Circles
Ever wondered why your dental hygienist uses a toothbrush with a spinning head to clean your teeth? Brushing your teeth in small, gentle circles is the best way to clean them without scratching your enamel or gums.
Here’s why brushing in circles is better:
- It reduces the risk of wearing away your enamel by providing even pressure across the whole of the tooth.
- It forces you to slow down and focus on each tooth.
- It allows you to reach more of each tooth’s surface area.
- It helps improve circulation in the gums, making them stronger and healthier.
Preventive Dental Care in Flagstaff, Arizona
Brushing alone cannot ensure a healthy mouth. Taking care of your oral health also requires a trip to the dentist twice a year.
When you go in for an exam and cleaning you can expect several things:
- A visual exam to check for potential problems
- X-rays to ensure there is no hidden damage
- A professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
- Personalized advice on how you can maintain good oral health
If you are looking for preventive care in Flagstaff, Arizona come visit us at Country Club Dental. Our dentist, Dr. Paul Whitney, can help you get the smile of your dreams and keep your teeth and gums healthy. We offer a full range of dental services, from cleanings and fillings to crowns and veneers. Contact us today to make an appointment.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (3/4/26). Photo by Lute on Unsplash
