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Proper Brushing Techniques From Your Dentist In Kelowna

Toddler Brushing Teeth
It's never to early to learn proper brushing techniques.

Photo by Mark and Allegra via Flickr

By Kevin Wood

Before you visit a dentist in Kelowna, it’s important that you take the time to understand the proper brushing techniques. By brushing properly you’ll minimize any pain you might feel on a regular dentist visit. Even though, I’m sure you’ve been educated on proper dental techniques in the past, a refresher is always important.

In this article we’re going to cover the techniques you need to know, if you want to minimize your risk of cavities and other dental procedures.

 

Use The Right Toothbrush

If you’re struggling to hold the toothbrush comfortably in your mouth, then your toothbrush is probably too big. You’ll want the handle to be comfortable in your hand and the brush head to be comfortable in your mouth. The more comfortable you brush the better your chances of using it more frequently.

You’ll also need to choose the right kind of bristles. They range from soft to hard, and the kind you choose will depend upon your mouth. You’ll want bristles that are hard enough to remove plaque, yet soft enough that they won’t hurt your gums, or teeth.

 

Brush For The Right Amount Of Time

The ideal time for brushing your teeth is three minutes, although two is recommended as the bare minimum. The best way to satisfy this number is to break up your mouth into four quadrants, and spend 30 seconds in each quadrant.

If it’s too hard to brush for this amount of time then try to distract yourself by watching tv, or even reading a book.


Brush With The Right Frequency

You’re supposed to brush at least two times a day. Three is ideal. When you leave too much time between your brushing sessions you leave time for plaque to build up, which increases your chances of an un-pleasureable dentist in Kelowna visit. Also ensure that you’re not brushing too much. It depends on the sensitivity of your mouth.

 

Use The Right Brushing Technique

It’s easy to get into bad habits when brushing your teeth. For instance, if you start brushing at the same spot in your mouth every time it may cause you to slack off. Try to start brushing at a different point in your mouth every time you pick up the brush.

Another common mistake is ignoring the interior surfaces of your mouth. You’ll want to spend as much time cleaning as outsides of your teeth as you do the inside. Basically, anywhere that bacteria has a chance to build up.

I hope this article has been valuable and you have a better understanding of the brushing practices you need to implement if you want to have a pleasurable experience with your dentist in Kelowna. Remember, just because you’ve been brushing all these years doesn’t mean you’re doing it right. Like anything else, it takes practice if you want to have perfect technique.

If you want to craft an ideal dental routine, get in touch with us.