Learning About Teeth Brushing at Your Next Dental Checkup

The next time you go in for a dental checkup, talk to your dentist specifically about brushing. As a child, your parents probably taught you to brush your teeth after every meal. However, they might not have shared much information as to why. After talking to your dentist, you will gain some invaluable insight. By applying this new knowledge on a regular basis, your teeth will look and feel amazing.

Start with the right toothbrush and toothpaste

When it comes to brushing, people need to choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste. For this, an individual can select between manual and electric. Of the two, dentists recommend that patients use an electric toothbrush. If necessary, a dentist can show a person the proper way to use it during a dental checkup. As for toothpaste, dentists typically suggest a brand that contains fluoride.

The correct motion when brushing

Perhaps one of the most surprising things that people learn about during a dental checkup has to do with using the correct motion. Often, people brush their teeth by going up and down and back and forth. However, for optimal results, dentists recommend going in circles. This is why the bristles on so many electric toothbrushes move in a circular motion.

The amount of time to brush

For anyone who heard to brush a full two minutes but scoffed at the idea, they might want to change their opinion. The correct amount of time to brush is also something a dentist will cover during a dental checkup. Simply put, the two-minute rule is spot on. Otherwise, even a top-rated toothbrush does not fully clean the teeth and around the gums.

The frequency of brushing

As for how often someone should brush, the goal is after every meal. Considering that is not always possible, people should target at least twice a day. During a dental checkup, some dentists give their patients a small toothbrush and tube of toothpaste to take home. Patients could put those inside of a purse or in a desk at work, allowing them to brush more often.

How to hold the toothbrush correctly

The angle at which an individual holds a toothbrush is also surprising. For the best coverage, a person should hold it at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline. If needed, a dentist can do a demonstration during a dental checkup. Even this makes a big difference in how well the toothbrush works to clean.