Why Keeping Your Teeth Clean Is Important

It is advised that every day you maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine which will help protect your teeth and reduce the chances of developing any complications, to ensure you keep your natural teeth for as long as possible. Every day you should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day (with a fluoride toothpaste) for a minimum of two minutes a brush. This will help to tackle the build up of bacteria and reduce the chance of infection.

The bacteria that can build up on your teeth is known as Plaque – if your teeth are not effectively brushed, then the plaque will coat your teeth and can build up overtime. This is can then lead on to tooth decay and in more severe cases, gum disease. Not only is regular brushing required, but the technique you used to brush your teeth is also very important, as you need to ensure you brush the entire surface of your teeth (backs & fronts).

It is the normal to brush your teeth first thing in the morning and just before you go to bed at night. The minimum for healthy teeth is twice a day, but if you really want to maintain your teeth it is recommended you brush every time after you have eaten food or drank something fizzy (high in sugar), as trapped food and acidic drinks are one of the main reasons behind tooth decay and the build up of bacteria. Depending on your exact state of teeth, the hygienist may advise what routine will best suit your teeth.

Whats Better, Electric or Manual Toothbrush?

Which ever you feel the most comfortable using. The main thing is, that all surfaces of your teeth are effectively cleaned with a fluoride toothpaste – both brushes can be effective. It might be easier to clean your teeth with an electric tooth brush but this does depend on your personal taste.

Types of Toothpaste

You really want to find a toothpaste that uses the correct fluoride concentration. With children it is important to supervise their brushing (making sure they don’t eat the toothpaste). Toothpaste containing 1,350-1,500 parts per million (fluoride) is suitable for children over 7 – for children under 6 (who don’t suffer from tooth decay) a fluoride tooth paste of a least 1,000ppm is fine.

Below 3 – Smear of toothpaste

3-6 years old – pea-sized blob of toothpaste

7-to young adults – toothpaste containing 1,350-1,500ppm of fluoride

How To Brush Your Teeth Effectively

You need to carefully and effectively brush both the insides and outsides surfaces of your teeth, as well as the chewing surfaces (where your teeth meet when eating). Once you have brushed (taking about two minutes), spit any excess toothpaste into the wash basin, but do not rinse your mouth out with water or use a mouthwash (this should be done at a different time to brushing).

Looking for more information?

Require a dental appointment, or are looking for cosmetic treatment such as teeth whitening in Tamworth, why not contact Ascent Dental Care Tamworth today, for a tailored and friendly service.