By Arthur Kezian
Most of us do not pay too much attention to how we brush our teeth. There are some factors to consider for the process to be effective. Selecting a toothpaste that suits your dental hygiene needs is of utmost importance. When this is combined with the proper brushing techniques, it is your best defense against harmful oral conditions, such as tooth cavities, bad breath, gum diseases, and tooth loss. Fluoride is an ingredient found in toothpastes that prevents decay and helps in repairing teeth that are already beginning to deteriorate. Other ingredients found in toothpastes may also help remove plaque and stains over a certain period of time if used consistently. Good quality toothpastes leave a fresh feeling in your mouth even hours after brushing.
In today’s market, there are so many types of toothpastes to choose from. There are toothpastes in gel or paste form, toothpastes for whitening, toothpastes for sensitive gums, etc. Apart from this, there are also so many different flavors to choose from. Ultimately, the choice is up to you, but it is best if you ask your dentist if the toothpaste that you prefer contains the right ingredients that fit your needs. Oftentimes, we hear that a pea-sized amount of toothpaste is sufficient to clean your teeth thoroughly. This information is correct. Brushing your teeth at a 45-degree angle is the key to good tooth brushing. One must direct the brush’s motion toward the gum line, making sure to brush the front and back part of your teeth, especially the backside, because these hard-to-reach places are a breeding ground for bacteria. It is simple to teach children how to brush their teeth properly. Use only a small amount of toothpaste, as suggested, and purchase toothpaste that is pleasing to their taste. For best results, select a toothpaste that is intended for children ages six and under because these contain the right ingredients that are made especially for delicate teeth. The ideal amount of time for brushing your teeth is three minutes. This is enough time to ensure that your teeth are completely clean and ready for a checkup.
Each person has a different set of teeth and gum type. There are varying kinds of toothbrushes that are specifically made for certain teeth types or gum types. The typical toothbrush contains 2,500 bristles, which are grouped into what is called tufts. In the head of the brush, these groups of bristles are folded and inserted into holes, which are then fixed in place. The handle is often made of plastic and rubber and is available in different styles, designed for maximum comfort and reach. This is important because if the handle is short, it will be hard to clean the backside of the teeth. To be able to reach the difficult areas of the mouth, it is recommended that you use a toothbrush with a small head. Of course, in the end, it is up to you whether to follow the suggestions made here. If you are not comfortable using a small toothbrush, then by all means, get a larger one. As long as the brush and the toothpaste meet your needs and the method for brushing is done correctly, a healthy set of teeth is not too far within reach.
-N.S.
