The most important part of dental care happens at home. The minimum amount of time you should spend brushing your teeth is 2 minutes twice a day. Proper brushing and flossing helps prevent
tooth decay,
gum disease, and other dental problems that may lead to extra visits to the dentist’s office. Let’s discuss some quick tips you can follow so you can be sure you are brushing properly.
Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle against your gum line and, in short strokes, brush gently from where the tooth and gum meet to the chewing surface. Brushing too aggressively can cause receding gums, tooth sensitivity, and even loose teeth. Repeat this on all inside and outside surfaces of your teeth.
Clean the chewing surfaces of your teeth using short sweeping strokes, tipping the bristles into the pits and crevices.
Clean the inside surfaces of your top and bottom front teeth and gums with back and forth motions, holding the brush almost vertical.
Gently brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth to remove the decay-causing bacteria that exist in these places.
Use a timer or play a favorite song while brushing your teeth to get accustomed to brushing for a full 2 to 3 minutes. Some electronic toothbrushes are available with built-in timers that let you know when 2 minutes are up.
Please
contact Dr. Michael Iott & Associates in NYC with any further questions relating to proper brushing technique.
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