Most people think it’s okay to brush their teeth once, possibly twice a day. First, you brush after breakfast and then again before bed. You might even sneak off after lunch once in a while to make sure your breath stays fresh the rest of the day.

For years, this routine has been considered enough: brush your teeth a few times a day and continue to enjoy optimal dental health in Scottsdale. Unfortunately, this type of thinking is sometimes equivalent to eating a huge meal and then hopping on a treadmill hoping to undo the damage.

Brushing your teeth isn’t difficult, but it’s also not as simple as you may think. Even if you think you’re optimizing your oral health, adding additional attention to your routine is the best way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

How to Properly Brush Your Teeth

Above all else, you need to invest in a quality toothbrush. We recommend electric ones with the ADA seal, however, manual toothbrushes work equally as well, as long as the entire brush fits into your mouth comfortably and it’s used as directed.

If you prefer manual toothbrushes, choose one with soft bristles. Medium and hard bristles damage tooth enamel and can increase tooth sensitivity. Replace your toothbrush, or the head of an electric one, every three months.

Regardless of which brand you prefer, your toothpaste needs to contain fluoride. Fluoride keeps dental enamel strong and wards of cavities. Once you’re armed with your soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-enriched toothpaste, here’s what you do to get your teeth sparkling clean:

  • Starting with the outer surface, begin brushing with side-to-side motions, making sure to cover all areas. If you have a manual toothbrush, hold it at a 45-degree angle and move from the outer most surfaces to biting surfaces. Don’t forget to brush the back of your teeth.
  • Brush after you eat for at least two minutes. If you eat something sweet or acidic, you need to wait for 30 minutes before brushing to allow enamel to recover. You can drink water during this time to help rinse away bacteria.

Professional Dental Care

Keep in mind that gum disease can increase the risk of serious medical issues including heart disease. The better you take care of your teeth, the lower your risk of developing potentially life-threatening diseases.

To schedule your next appointment at Studio Smiles, call 480-860-0092. During your visit, we will discuss ways to optimize your daily brushing routine and answer any questions you have with a smile.