Do You Remember The Basics?
Quick question: Can you explain the basics of brushing and flossing to your kids? Even if brushing and flossing are second nature to you, hygiene habits are learned, so even small gaps in an explanation can lead to serious issues down the line. No routine eschews the need to see your dentist twice a year, but a good routine helps visits go as smoothly as possible.
Keep reading to learn more!
How do you brush for two minutes?
Yes, we all know that you’re supposed to brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day, but how do you accomplish that effectively? It’s a lot more nuanced than simply setting a timer and brushing until the alarm sounds. Here are some basic steps to follow during your two-minute oral hygiene routine:
- Pick the right tool for the job! Soft-bristled, electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque and food debris than manual toothbrushes. The bristles vibrate to give a deeper clean.
- Use your time wisely! Give your teeth even attention by dividing your mouth into sections. Both your top and bottom teeth have a front side, top side, and back side, making six sections in total. If you brush each of those sections for twenty seconds each, you’ll hit exactly two minutes on the dot.
- Give your gums attention! Your teeth sit on top of your gums, so the plaque that touches your teeth also touches your gums. If you’d like to help prevent gingivitis and gum issues, gently brushing your gums will help keep your whole mouth clean.
Are you an effective flosser?
You can’t simply thread the floss between your teeth and pop it back out. If you’ve ever gotten a piece of food stuck in your teeth, then you know you have to really work to get it out. The same goes for plaque. Once the floss is between your teeth, pull it down a little under your tooth, and then bring the floss back up, making sure it’s rubbing against the enamel as you take it out. Do this for both sides of each tooth, and you’ll be cleaning much more effectively. Don’t forget the back sides of your rearmost molars!
Follow these dental health tips twice a day, and you’ll be on the way to a winning smile. Don’t forget the most important hygiene tip of all: preventative dental care at our office! Be sure to keep up to date with your twice-yearly cleanings and check-ups. Call our dental office located in Meridian, ID to schedule your next appointment.
