I had not been to the dentist in 7 years. Very thankful for finding this one! Dilworth Family Dentistry has been great. They got me in to my first appointment in a few business days. Then each of my follow ups within two weeks post the initial appointment. Special shout out to Tracy who has made this whole experience phenomenal and easy from start to finish. Highly recommend!
Brushing your teeth seems simple enough: grab a toothbrush, add toothpaste, and go, right? But the way you brush can make a big difference in how well you protect your teeth and gums. Small mistakes can lead to plaque buildup, gum irritation, and even enamel wear over time? The good news? A few easy adjustments can take your brushing from “just okay” to truly effective. Here are five tooth brushing tips to make the most of your daily routine.
1. Don’t Brush Too Hard
You might think brushing with force gets teeth cleaner, but in reality, it can do more harm than good. Pressing too hard can wear away enamel and cause gum recession, leading to sensitivity and long-term issues.
Instead, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and let it glide gently across your teeth in small, circular motions. You don’t need to scrub, just be thorough. Your toothbrush isn’t a power tool; it’s a precision instrument for your smile.
2. Stick to the Two-Minute Rule
A quick once-over won’t cut it. We recommend brushing for a full two minutes, twice a day. That gives you enough time to reach every surface of every tooth, from front to back to chewing surfaces.
Try setting a timer, using an electric brush with a built-in timer, or playing a short song while you brush. You might be surprised how fast a minute feels when you’re not keeping track!
3. Use the Right Toothpaste
There’s a wide range of toothpaste out there, but the one thing to look for is fluoride. Fluoride strengthens enamel, helps prevent decay, and is safe for daily use. If you have sensitive teeth, look for formulas specifically made to reduce sensitivity without skipping protection.
If you’re unsure what toothpaste is right for you, especially if you have crowns, braces, or gum concerns, ask us for a recommendation tailored to your needs during your next checkup.
4. Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly
Old, frayed bristles don’t clean effectively. Replace your toothbrush (or electric brush head) every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles look worn. Using a worn-out brush can actually leave plaque behind and no one wants that.
Pro tip: jot down the date on your calendar when you switch brushes, or replace it with the change of seasons as an easy reminder
5. Brush Your Gumline and Tongue, Too
It’s not just about your teeth. Plaque and bacteria collect around the gumline and on your tongue as well. Gently angle your brush toward the gums and sweep along the edge. Don’t forget to brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper to keep your breath fresh and bacteria in check.
These small details make a big difference in your overall oral health and can help prevent gum disease before it starts.
Need help fine-tuning your brushing routine? Schedule a visit with your dentist and get personalized tooth brushing tips based on your smile’s needs. A few tweaks today can help you avoid bigger issues down the road!
Call Charlotte Family Dentistry at 704-247-6499 for an appointment in Charlotte, NC. You can also request an appointment online.