Three Ways to Check Your Brushing Habits

When it comes to brushing your teeth, you probably don’t think twice about it. As a habit you’ve been performing every day since you were a child, tooth brushing has become second nature. However, it is a crucial task that needs to be checked periodically to ensure old habits are not poor habits. To ensure you are getting the most out of your brushing session, check yourself in the following ways:

Check Your Brush

Like any job, the tool you use is an important component of your success. Make sure your toothbrush is the correct size for your mouth; you should never have to strain your jaw open to fit it in. In addition, pay close attention to the bristles. A soft-bristled brush is typically best. If your bristles look worn or frayed, it may be time to replace your brush – which should generally be every three months. Lastly, if you have dexterity challenges or arthritis in your hands, consider making the switch to an electric toothbrush so that you can get the job done easier and better.

Check Your Time

When it comes to brushing, most of us are selling ourselves short on time. The recommended tooth brushing time is two minutes, twice a day. Since there are four main sections of your mouth, this equates to about 30 seconds per quadrant. If you aren’t sure how long you are brushing, set a timer to see how well you are measuring up.

Check Your Technique

Most of us are using a brushing technique that we learned as a young child. In fact, we are probably doing it the exact same way every time, with starting and finishing on the same side. The question is: are you brushing correctly? You should hold your brush at a 45-degree angle and use gentle and short strokes in an up and down motion.  Make sure you are cleaning all surfaces of your teeth, especially on your back molars. Before you finish the job, give your tongue a good scrubbing too. 

At Avalon Dental Group, we love helping patients maximize their oral care regime. Each patient has unique needs when it comes to their smile. Therefore, it is important that we discuss your specific technique, tools and toothpaste choice with you at your routine visit.