By the time you are an adult, you assume you know how to brush your teeth. According to the experts, you might not know the right way after all. Using the right technique is just as important as the brush you use for the job. Spend a few minutes to improve your style, and you may spend less time in the dentist's office filling cavities.

The Right Tools

Choosing the right brush is essential because it has to be comfortable in your hand as well as in your mouth. It is advised by many professionals to use a soft brush whether it is the traditional handheld or an electric version. For patients that suffer from arthritis or similar ailments affecting your arms, shoulders or hands, the electrical version may be the best choice.

Enough Time or Too Much

Many dentists suggest brushing three times daily, especially after meals, but a minimum of twice is essential. Some professionals believe twice is enough because you don't want to destroy the enamel. However, if you have consumed an acidic drink or food, you should wait a minimum of thirty minutes before you brush. The acid breaks down the tooth enamel, therefore, brushing quickly does more damage than the benefits achieved.

Technique and Surfaces

Brush gently since it doesn't take much to remove harmful plaque if you perform brushing and flossing on a regular basis. It is recommended to use a forty-five-degree angle when brushing. Using short strokes with an 'up and down' motion is the best method.

Just be sure to cover your entire mouth area and remove all of the plaque from the surface of your teeth. Divide up the areas, such as the left or right side, and the middle. Switch it up, and begin in a different section in case you are in a hurry at some point. You don't want to skip a spot frequently.

The Brush

Most people store the toothbrush in the bathroom, which is not a  very clean area. Therefore, try to place it away from the germs on the counter. You might place it in the medicine cabinet in a case.

When traveling, be sure to have a carry case that will allow the brush to dry between uses. It will grow bacteria if it is in a closed case such as a plastic bag.

With these suggestions and a  bit of common sense, your teeth and gums should remain healthy. Just do it the right way and don't skip brushing even if you have had a long day. Your teeth will last much longer. Contact a dental office, such as Niantic Dental Associates P C, for more information.