Prevent tooth decay with good brushing habits
A good routine may prove difficult at first, but over time it will get easier
Monday March 02 2009
A PROPER brushing technique, which takes a little time and effort, is the key to preventing tooth decay. Are you brushing the right way or just doing the minimum every night? You should be brushing twice a day.
- Brushing your side teeth -- brush two to three side teeth at a time. Use a circular or back and forth motion. The brush should be placed against your gum line where your teeth and gums meet and held at a 45-degree angle against the gum line.
- Brushing your back teeth (molars) -- clean the chewing areas of your back teeth by moving the brush back and forth.
- Brushing your front teeth -- brush both the inside and outside of your front teeth with short vertical strokes.
- Make sure you do not forget to brush the area of the tooth where it meets the gum. You may experience some bleeding if you have not being doing this previously, but this will quickly improve with time.
It is important to replace your toothbrush on a regular basis. Most toothbrushes need to be replaced every three months.
If you are considering buying an electric toothbrush, studies have shown that the most effective type of electric toothbrush is one in which the head has a rotating oscillation action -- meaning the head spins one way and then the other.
As with manual toothbrushes, you will need to replace the head of your electric toothbrush once every three months.
Flossing is also important. Take a piece of dental floss, and gently guide it into the space between your teeth. Then move the floss up and down several times before moving on to the next space.
It is recommended that you floss your teeth once a day. You may experience some bleeding from your gums when you first begin flossing but this should improve with time.
Dental mouthwash can also help prevent tooth decay.
