Brushing your teeth is one of the most important things you can do for optimal oral health. If you don't clean your teeth correctly, plaque will become tartar in as little as 24 hours. Plaque is a sticky, colorless mix of bacteria and sugars. It sticks to our teeth in a thin layer, and if it isn't removed, the bacteria can cause cavities and gum disease. Soon after plaque turns into tartar, you won't be able to remove it with your toothbrush—only your hygienist or dentist can remove it.

That's why everyone should brush their teeth at least twice a day (preferably after every meal) for at least 2 minutes each time. Let's review the best way to brush and ensure clean teeth.

1. Choose the Right Toothbrush

There are many different types of toothbrushes on the market, so it's important to find one that fits your needs. If you have sensitive teeth, look for a toothbrush with soft bristles. If you have a lot of plaque, look for a toothbrush with stiffer bristles. Once you've found the right toothbrush, make sure to replace it every three to four months.

2. Use the Right Technique

When you brush your teeth, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Use gentle circular motions to clean all surfaces - front, back, and chewing. To clean the inside surfaces of your front teeth, tilt the toothbrush vertically and use gentle up-and-down strokes.

When using an electric toothbrush, remember to:

Charge your electric toothbrush

Wet your brush and squeeze an ideal amount of fluoride toothpaste

Use the brush on a 45-degree angle to reach your gum line

Use light pressure in small circles

Brush each quadrant for about 30 seconds before moving on to the next

3. Don't Forget the Back

Many people forget to brush the back surfaces of their teeth. To reach the back teeth, tilt the toothbrush towards the back of your mouth. Use light back-and-forth strokes to clean the molars and other back teeth.

4. Spit, Don't Swallow

When you're done brushing, spit the toothpaste into the sink. Don't swallow it, as this can be harmful to your health. Swallowing too much toothpaste can lead to stomachaches and diarrhea.

5. Rinse

After you've spit out the toothpaste, rinse your mouth and toothbrush with water. A water rinse will help remove any plaque or tartar that's left on your teeth. Try to use warm water if you can.

6. Don't Brush Too Hard

It's important to brush gently for clean teeth. Brushing too hard can damage your gums and tooth enamel. If you're not sure if you're brushing too hard, ask your dentist or dental hygienist. They can help you find the right toothbrush and teach you the proper way to brush.

Clean teeth are vital for good oral health. Be sure to brush at least twice a day and clean all surfaces of your teeth. Use the proper technique and don't forget to brush the back! Give us a call today to schedule an appointment for dental cleaning.

7. Do Not Forget Your Tongue

When you are done brushing your teeth, don’t forget about your tongue. Your tongue, the insides of your cheeks and the roof your mouth and the insides of your cheeks collect plaque, bacteria and can hold food particles. Just like your teeth, they need to be brushed to ensure proper oral care.

8. Common Brushing Mistakes

Brushing your teeth seems like an easy task, but even adults make common mistakes. he most common brushing mistakes are:

  • Not brushing at least twice a day. Brushing should really be done after each meal and snack.
  • Brushing too hard. Brushing hard can erode your gums and cause tooth pain.
  • Failure to reach all tooth surfaces can cause plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease.
  • Using a hard or medium bristle brush. Only use a soft bristle brush to protect the enamel of your teeth.
  • Not brushing for long enough. Be sure to brush for at least two minutes.
  • Using too much toothpaste. You only need to use a pea-sized amount.

LIVFRESH Dental Gel provides the long-lasting clean you want, without the harsh chemicals or abrasives found in traditional toothpaste. Many users claim that our LIVFRESH Dental Gel provides close to the same level of cleanliness as after a professional cleaning.

Please contact us for more information or to purchase LIVFRESH Dental Gel.