How Long Should You Brush?

Manchester Township Cosmetic Dentistry

At Rotem Dental Care in Toms River, we recommend two minutes as a minimum time for brushing your teeth. Most people think they brush for at least that long, but might be surprised if they actually set a timer. Most of us only brush for about a minute, if that.

So, there is always room for improvement. Brushing your teeth, after all, is an important part of any daily dental health routine.

Essential Dental Health

We recommend brushing your teeth not only for two minutes, but twice a day, and with a soft-bristled toothbrush. We strongly recommend flossing, too. Before or after you brush? The jury is out on that one. We think before is better, but the most important thing is that you do it.

Be sure to get all over your teeth: the front and the sides, inside and out, and the tops. When you do the sides, be sure you brush along the gumline. Use a gentle touch, and hold the brush at a 45-degree angle.

As you do the front and side surfaces, move the brush in gentle, circular strokes.

Toothpaste

Use a pea-sized blob of fluoridated toothpaste – or more than pea-sized, if you’re so inclined. Too much toothpaste is no big deal, but be sure to use enough.

Be sure the head of the toothbrush isn’t too big, especially if you have a smaller mouth. It needs to fit easily between your cheeks and gums. The handle is less important. Make sure it feels comfortable in your hand. Replace your toothbrush every three months, if not more often.

Tooth Massage

Plaque is the filmy stuff that forms on teeth. It is soft and loose, so you don’t have to scrub very hard to remove it. Think of it not so much as brushing, but massaging your teeth. With that in mind you should you be able to keep that light touch.

At Rotem Dental Care in Toms River, we want the best possible dental health for all of our patients. We offer general and restorative dentistry. Schedule your next checkup with us today.

Contact Rotem Dental Care:

732-228-4028

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

355 Lakehurst Rd
Toms River, New Jersey
08755

 

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