Brushing your teeth should be as much a part of your daily routine as having breakfast, lunch and dinner. We may sometimes forget how important this daily activity is for our dental and overall physical health but, if you make certain to take care of them, you’re helping to ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth.
How Often Should I Brush?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends the following:
- Brush your teeth twice daily.
- Brushing three times a day is ideal, or after every meal, but it’s not always realistic in our busy lives.
- More than three times can begin to damage your gums and the enamel on your teeth.
- If you’ve eaten an acidic food or drink, avoid brushing your teeth right away.
- These acids weaken tooth enamel, and brushing too soon can remove enamel. If you know you’re going to eat or drink something acidic, brush your teeth before eating.
Are All Toothbrushes Made Equal?
The best toothbrush is a soft-bristled brush roughly about the size and shape of your mouth, it should fit easily and reach all areas. You’ll always get a new toothbrush at your six-month check-up with us but a replacement toothbrush about halfway between check-ups, or every three to four months, is ideal. If your toothbrush shows wear before then, replace as needed.
In addition to brushing, you can also do the following to help promote good dental health:
- Floss daily to help remove plaque and food particles in between the teeth and gum line.
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Drink plenty of water to flush away food residue and bacteria.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.
If you have questions on what dental products are best for you, ask us at your next dental appointment. And look for the ADA Seal on fluoride toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, oral irrigators, mouth rinses and other oral hygiene products.
Note: Information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified dental and medical health providers with questions you may have regarding your specific dental or medical conditions.
