Since February is dental health month, I thought I would go over some of the basics in today’s article – namely, how to brush your teeth.  There are a number of effective brushing techniques. I would advise you to check with your dentist or hygienist to determine which technique is best for you, since, tooth position and gum condition vary. One effective, easy-to-remember technique involves using a circular or elliptical motion to brush a couple of teeth at a time, gradually covering the entire mouth.

Place a toothbrush beside your teeth at a 45-degree angle and gently brush the teeth in an elliptical motion. Brush the outside of the teeth, inside the teeth, the chewing surfaces and in between the teeth as well.  Many people don’t think of it, but you should also brush your tongue since it will collect plaque and debris just like your teeth.  Using a back and forth (scrubbing) motion causes the gum surface to recede, or can expose the root surface or make the root surface tender. You also risk wearing down the gum line.

Soft or hard bristles?
In general, a toothbrush head should be small (1" by 1/2") for easy access. It should have a long, wide handle for a firm grasp. It should have soft, nylon bristles with round ends. Hard and medium bristled brushes are too abrasive and can wear down teeth. A soft, rounded, multi-tufted brush can clean teeth effectively. Press just firmly enough to reach the spaces between the teeth as well as the surface. As I said, medium and hard bristles are not recommended.

How long should I brush?
Many people don’t brush long enough.  To effectively reach all areas of your mouth and remove the cavity-causing bacteria, you should brush for a minimum of three minutes twice a day.  Patients generally think they're brushing longer, but typically the average person logs 15 to 45 seconds at the sink while brushing!  This keeps dentist busy, but isn’t real good for your oral health!  Try timing yourself, you might be surprised.  A good way to time yourself is to brush your teeth for the length of a song on the radio – about three minutes.

Should I brush at work?
Definitely, but most Americans don't brush during the workday. Yet a recent survey shows if you keep a toothbrush at work, the chances you will brush during the day increase by 65 percent.  I don’t know of a dentist who doesn’t recommend keeping a toothbrush at work.  Getting debris off teeth right away stops sugary snacks from turning to damaging acids, and catches starchy foods like potato chips before they turn to cavity-causing sugar. If you brush with fluoride toothpaste in the morning and before going to bed, you don't even need to use toothpaste at work. You can just brush and rinse before heading back to the desk. If you don't have a toothbrush, rinsing your mouth with water for 30 seconds after lunch also helps.  It is advisable to brush your teeth right after lunch before you become absorbed in work.  I hope the “brushing review” helps.

Do you have dental questions?  Contact me through our web site at www.drscottlogan.com in the “Contact Us” section.  Typically I will be able to get back to you with an answer within a few days.