6 Strategies For More Effective Toothbrushing

You've made a list of things you want to accomplish, and one is to be more dedicated to your dental health. You haven't been to the dentist in a while, and you've been remiss about flossing your teeth. As you begin flossing daily, also pay more attention to your brushing strategies. You already know the basic requirement of brushing two to three times per day, but additional actions can boost your dental health.

Brush for Two Minutes

It's likely that you're not brushing long enough. Even one minute can pass slowly when you're standing in front of a mirror brushing. Time yourself and see how long two minutes actually is. 

You might listen to the radio or watch TV while brushing to keep from becoming impatient. However, don't get carried away and brush for four or five minutes. That can irritate your gums. 

If you have arthritis or another problem that makes two minutes of brushing difficult, switch to an electric toothbrush to make the activity easier.

Start With Different Teeth 

You probably have a longtime habit of starting your brushing in the same part of your mouth. Shake things up and start with different teeth each time. That way, if your brushing becomes less enthusiastic as the seconds tick toward the two-minute mark, your teeth will all get equal attention over three or four sessions. 

Pay Attention to Less Obvious Areas

Devote plenty of brushing activity to the inside of the teeth and the back molars. It's easy to forget, but plaque and tartar build up there too.

Brush Three Times per Day Maximum

Avoid brushing after every snack. That can actually be hard on your teeth and gums. Instead, rinse your mouth with water after a snack or chew gum that contains xylitol, a substance that prevents tooth decay. 

Allow Your Brush to Dry

If you always stick your wet toothbrush in a small cabinet or cover it with a cap, it may stay moist for hours. That increases bacteria growth. Make sure the brush can air dry. If you don't like leaving it out in the open in a bathroom, move the brush to a different room. 

Use the Best Brushes & Paste 

Dentists, such as http://www.couchmandental.com, recommend using soft rather than hard bristles, since hard bristles can wear down enamel. Ideally, you'll throw away the brush every three months and buy a new one.

The best toothpaste, as far as dentists are concerned, is a basic product containing fluoride to strengthen enamel and prevent tooth decay. Look for products that have the American Dental Association (ADA) seal. 

Begin Today

Start today with your new brushing strategies and feel good that you're going the extra mile for your dental health. That will help you avoid getting cavities, gum disease and other oral health problems.