Oral Health: Brushing Up on Dental Care Basics
November 24th, 2009 by wordpress
Oral Health: Brushing Up on Dental Care Basics
By Mayo Clinic
Brushing for oral health
Oral health begins with clean teeth. Consider these brushing basics from the American Dental Association:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day. When you brush, don’t rush. Take enough time to do a thorough job.
- Use the proper equipment. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Consider using an electric or battery-operated toothbrush, especially if you have arthritis or other problems that make it difficult to brush effectively.
- Practice good technique. Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle against your teeth and brush with short back-and-forth motions. Remember to brush the inside and chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as your tongue. Avoid vigorous or harsh brushing, which can irritate your gums.
- Know when to replace your toothbrush. Invest in a new toothbrush or a replacement head for you electric toothbrush every three to four months—-or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
