Here at South Austin Microendodontics we are constantly asked, “How do I prevent myself from needing a root canal?” Our answer is always proper hygiene. Brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day and floss regularly. It is important to instill proper nutrition into your lifestyle and to schedule regular checkups with your dentist. Below you will find some tips on how to maintain a clean and healthy mouth.
It all starts with your toothbrush. When you look down the aisle at your local supermarket, it is baffling by how many toothbrushes the aisle actually holds. You have the option to choose the color of your toothbrush and the type of bristles, soft, medium or hard. So, what fits you best?
Choosing Your Toothbrush
- Most dentist recommend a soft bristled tooth brush or soft bristled electric tooth brush to help reduce plaque better than hard bristles
- A smaller toothbrush head can help you reach those hard to reach places
- Remember, replace your toothbrush every three months or when the bristles begin to show wear
- If you have recently had a cold, you should replace your toothbrush, because the bristles hold on to germs which can lead to reinfection
How to properly brush your teeth
- Bush your teeth 2 times a day for 2 minutes. Most people choose to brush their teeth the first thing in the morning and before bedtime
- For a manual toothbrush:
- For the outer and inner surfaces of your teeth should be brushed at a 45-degree angle against the gum line
- For the chewing surfaces, make sure the brush is flat on your teeth and brush back and forth
- For the inside of your front teeth, with the tip of your brush, brush vertically and used gentle up and down strokes
- For an electric toothbrush:
- The placement of the toothbrush is all the same, but no brush strokes necessary!
- Just position the bristles, start in the back of your mouth and slowly move the toothbrush forward over each tooth surface
- Don’t brush hard! Only put enough pressure on your toothbrush to slightly flex the bristles
- Don’t forget your tongue! To help freshen your breath and remove food particles, brush your tongue in a back-to-forth sweeping motion
- Spend at least 30 seconds for each part of your mouth, this will total up to 2 minutes a day
- To help pass the time, listen to your favorite song or watch a short YouTube clip
The easiest or hardest part of this big decision is the color. We had a vote in our office and the majority of the office staff chooses blue. What’s your favorite toothbrush color?
Check out these neat websites to learn more about your toothbrush or brushing habits. If you have any questions about your oral health, always contact your general dentist or hygienist.
