What is the correct way to brush your teeth? The experts tell you
The General Dentists Council denies the myths about proper tooth washing and tells how to do it
Teeth brushing is a practice that we do every day, but how do we know if we do it the right way? We answer all your questions and explain how to brush your teeth to enjoy good oral health with the help of the General Dentists Council .
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What is the proper procedure when brushing teeth?
As the experts confirm, regarding tooth brushing, the most important thing is to always follow a sequence. The ideal is to divide the mouth into 4 sectors , starting with the upper sector on the right, then the upper left, following the sector on the lower left and ending on the lower right sector.
How long should brushing last?
In brushing, in addition to order, the time we dedicate is important. For each sector we have to be brushing 30 seconds so in total we will be 2 minutes . As for the technique, it is important to go from the gum to the tooth and not the other way around . We will finish by brushing the tongue from the inside out. Ideally, brush your teeth 20 minutes after each meal or, at least, twice a day.
What is the recommended amount of toothpaste in each toothbrush?
The typical thought of 'the more pasta, the better' is not applicable to this activity. Unlike what is usually thought, the ideal measure of toothpaste in the brush is the size of a pea , that is, very little. If you put too much amount you will cause a lot of foam, which will cause you to spit and finish brushing your teeth very fast. In addition, it can increase the risk of you taking more toothpaste with fluoride, which is harmful to your health.
How high is the brush placed?
The ideal is to place the brush at the level of the edge of the gums, at a 45 ° angle. Brush gently with short, vertical or circular movements. Do not brush your teeth horizontally.
Should we wash tongue and palate?
After brushing your teeth, use the brush to gently clean your tongue (do not press too hard or you will damage the tissue). This helps prevent bad breath and eliminates bacteria accumulated in the tongue. The same with the palate.
Is it recommended to use other accessories besides the brush?
As indicated by the Council, the use of dental floss is recommended since it helps to maintain proper hygiene in the interdental spaces. In spite of this, they also recommend the use of brushes, called interproximal, suitable to reach these interdental spaces.
How often should the brush be changed?
In general, the brush should be changed after 3 months of use because the bristles deform and lose efficiency. Also, it is recommended to change it if you have had the flu, an infection of the throat or mouth , because the germs can be quartered in the sows and reactivate the infection.
What to do with the brush after washing?
It is important to remember that the brush should be rinsed and dried thoroughly after each use to prevent it from becoming a germ source.
Use mouth rinses?
It is recommended to finish the process with the use of mouthwashes, but you should never replace brushing with them . The use of mouthwashes should be understood as a complement.
On the other hand, experts recommend:
- Do not brush your teeth right after consuming acidic foods or drinks, because the acid deprives the tooth enamel and when brushing we could wear the surface of the teeth.
- In the hypothetical case that we could not brush our teeth, chewing gum without sugar moderately limits the attack of acids.
- On toothpaste, as a general rule it has to be fluoridated to brush every day.