I’ve been a loyal patient at this dental practice since the ’80s, and my recent annual cleaning reaffirmed why. Cindy, the dental hygienist, provided exceptional care. Her gentle touch and genuine concern for my comfort made the cleaning a breeze. I’ve always received top-notch service here, and Cindy’s expertise is a shining example of their commitment to patient satisfaction. Highly recommend this practice for their outstanding staff and long-standing dedication to dental health.
If your family is like most, chances are at least some of your household may have indulged in a little too much candy for Halloween. It happens. As your dentist, though, we hope you’ll want to make up for it by celebrating National Brush Day with us. We think the best way to observe this day is with our five ways to get the most out of your toothbrush.
We’re happy to discuss more about your brushing, including recommendations for brushes, toothpaste, and other products at your dental exams. If you’d like to know, just ask!
In the meantime, check out our tips:
- Time Yourself – Many people, especially kids, don’t spend enough time brushing. To get the best results, you need to brush your teeth for two full minutes every time you brush. Some electric toothbrushes have a timer. If yours does, use it. If not, no worries, you can simply set the timer on your phone. To make your brushing session more enjoyable, find some two-minute songs you like, then cue up the music.
- Buy the Right Brush – There are lots of different toothbrushes out there, both manual and electric. Some have features like different brushing modes, timers, and pressure sensors. Really, though, the two most important things are soft bristles and a head that fits comfortably in your mouth. Hard bristles are a bad idea because they can damage your tooth enamel.
- Don’t Apply Too Much Pressure – One reason to choose an electric brush is that it applies more even pressure. Using too much pressure and brushing too vigorously can cause your enamel to wear away. This makes you more prone to cavities. It can also adversely affect the appearance of your teeth, as the yellowish dentin in your tooth becomes more visible.
- Switch Your Brush Regularly – We know you may like how your toothbrush feels when you get “broken in” just the way you like. However, you should switch to a new brush (or new brush head) every three or four months. You’ll want to switch sooner than that if you notice your bristles are frayed and/or bent out of shape. If they are, it may be a sign that you are brushing too hard and should use a lighter touch.
- Keep Your Brush Dry – Since you brush your teeth to remove disease-causing bacteria, you’ll want to keep your brush as free of bacteria as possible too. Store it where air can easily circulate around it and keep it dry. Putting it in a drawer or other dark and enclosed environment will just make it easier for bacteria to collect.
Ready to schedule your next exam and cleaning or another service? Call Charlotte Dentistry at 704-285-0846 to schedule your appointment in Charlotte, NC.