Rocky Hill, CT dentist, Thaddeus S. Michalski, D.M.D. wants patients to benefit from proper toothbrushing

Posted by writer

Rocky Hill, CT dentist, Thaddeus S. Michalski, and his team excel at preventive dentistry. To keep tooth enamel  and gums at their healthiest, they teach patients the foundation of good oral hygiene–correct brushing technique.

Proper toothbrushing technique is simple, but very important. Truly the frontline in defending tooth enamel from decay and gums from periodontal disease, children and adults alike should practice the proper way to keep teeth sparkling and healthy for great dental longevity.

Brush 2 minutes twice a day

Toothbrushing is not rocket science. It just takes practice and discipline. The American Dental Association recommends that children through senior adults brush their teeth a minimum of 2 minutes twice daily. Of course, children require mom or dad’s supervision when brushing, and while each child varies in maturity, suffice it to say that most kids can solo on toothbrushing by age 7 or 8.

Use good tools

Pick a soft-bristled toothbrush. Soft bristles don’t wear enamel or abrade soft gum tissue. While not a necessity, some people like using an electric toothbrush.

Also, use a quality fluoride toothpaste. Used for decades, topical fluoride remains an excellent decay preventative. Apply a pea-sized amount of paste for kids under 3, while older kids, teens and adults can apply toothpaste to the entire length of the toothbrush head.

Use short strokes

Place the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle to teeth and gums. Using short, back and forth strokes, brush the teeth slowly and carefully, starting with the front and moving systematically around the mouth. Be sure to brush the chewing surfaces of all teeth, and pay particular attention to hard to reach back molars. For the back sides of front teeth, orient the brush vertically, and use up and down strokes.

Some people use timers or their phones to ensure they are brushing long enough. This is a great idea because brushing can be boring and might require timing to be sure you stay at it for a full 2 minutes.

Brush soft tissues

Your gums require cleaning, too. So, brush them gently, along with the inside of the cheeks, tongue and hard palate. Be sure to rinse your mouth well with warm water.

Take care of your brush

Remember to rinse your toothbrush, and dry it well. Store it in a clean dry place.

Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months or when it shows signs of wear. Some toothbrushes have wear indicators, small bands of color on the bristles which disappear when the brush is worn out. Also, get a new brush after a bout of the flu or a cold.

Follow-up with flossing

Flossing removes the food particles and plaque that your toothbrush just can’t reach. It also adds time to your oral hygiene routine but pays big benefits in less decay and gum disease.

Contact your Grand Junction, CO dentist

Thaddeus S. Michalski, a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, really enjoys preventive dentistry because he knows it preserves healthy smiles. Be sure to contact our office for your semi-annual exam and hygienic cleaning. While you’re there, ask Dr. Michalski or the hygienist about the best way to brush. You are never too old to improve on this important aspect of dental care!