If you run half of your errands, you should not expect the remaining tasks to be done as well. Many people find themselves in need of cavity treatment because they only brush parts of their smile, leaving some areas poorly served. In order to thoroughly remove plaque buildup and food debris from teeth, you should spend at least two minutes on brushing. Shorter brushing sessions can leave harder to reach areas poorly served, or completely missed. As a result, your dentist can find tartar buildup, symptoms of gingivitis, and even cavities at your next routine appointment! If you want to stay safe against decay, give yourself time to fully clean your teeth. If you have questions about your routine, or if you have other concerns about preventive care, our Sheridan, WY dentist’s office can discuss them with you at your next routine checkup.
Are You Fully Cleaning Your Smile?
If your brushing routine rarely (or never) fills two minutes, there is reason to believe you are not cleaning your smile as thoroughly as you ought to if you want to prevent dental problems. By taking those two minutes to work your brush over your smile, you can more thoroughly remove harmful agents that have accumulated throughout the day. This includes reaching harder to reach spaces near the back of your mouth, and the grooves of your molars and premolars.
Identifying Common Mistakes People Make While Brushing
If you want to avoid problems that require dental fillings and dental crowns, you should have effective brushing habits in place. In addition to spending at least two minutes in order to clean every area of your smile, make sure you are brushing at least two times per day. Take care to target spaces where your teeth and gums meet, as bacteria accumulating at the base of teeth are able to infect your gums. For better results, make sure you are not using the same toothbrush for too long. After three months of use, the bristles can wear down and become less effective at cleaning.
Make Sure You Floss Once A Day (Even When You Brush Thoroughly)
While two minutes of thorough, careful brushing can do considerable good for your smile, it can be difficult to clean between your teeth by brushing alone. Target these areas by flossing on a daily basis. When you do so, you clear out bacteria and food particles that are able to create trouble for your dental health. This consistent habit helps you avoid problems with tooth decay as well as gum disease.
Your Sheridan, WY Dentist’s Office Can Help You Keep Your Smile In Great Shape!
Your Sheridan, WY dentist’s office can help you protect your smile, and we can offer guidance to help you improve your at-home routine. To find out more about our services, please call Grinnell Street Dental at 307-672-7567.
