Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is important to help remove food and plaque as well as to keep your mouth healthy. The Canadian Dental Association recommends brushing for two to three minutes, once in the morning and once at night. How can you make sure you’re brushing long enough?
How to Brush
Brushing for at least two full minutes is easier than you might think. That’s less than the time it takes to listen to a song on the radio!
Start by dividing your mouth into four quadrants – two on the top and two on the bottom. Then spend at least 30 seconds brushing each quadrant. Simple!
Most electronic toothbrushes have timers built in to help you brush the full amount of time and to help maintain proper brushing technique.
Helping Kids
Now that may seem easy enough, but if you have little ones, you know that getting them to brush their teeth can be a challenge. Luckily, there are many options available to make brushing more fun!
Start with the basics. Pick a toothpaste and toothbrush made just for kids. There are plenty of fun toothpaste flavors and varieties that will keep them brushing. You can also find toothbrushes in different colors or with their favorite characters.
Now, make it fun. Use an egg timer or choose a toothbrush with a built-in timer to help count down the seconds. You can even download a brushing app on your smartphone or tablet that encourages them to brush longer with music, animation, and even reward tracking!
Don’t worry if you or your kids brush more than three minutes. Just remember to practice good technique and be gentle while brushing your teeth. You will also want to avoid brushing too long as it can be harmful to your gums or even wear out your tooth enamel. Also make sure to replace your toothbrush or electric brush head every three months to ensure the bristles remain strong.
By following these simple tips, you’ll keep your mouth (and your Atlantis Dental Roundhouse dentist) happy! For more helpful information regarding your smile, browse the Atlantis Dental Roundhouse blog. To schedule an appointment, contact us here.