The Do’s and Don’t’s of Brushing

Our Issaquah dental clinic sees many problems that could have been avoided with proper brushing technique. Even a small flaw in your routine can gradually turn into a big problem for you and your teeth. If you think that your own habits could do with a little “brushing up”, take a look at our easy-to-follow tips here:

  • Flossing should come first. This allows the toothpaste to put its fluoride to better work between your teeth.
  • Brush twice a day, once after you wake up and once before you go to sleep, after your last meal of the day. You shouldn’t eat or drink anything aside from water after you last brush, as your mouth is more vulnerable to lingering food particles as you sleep.
  • Brush for two minutes at a time. Too little may leave you insufficiently cleaned, and too much might be too hard on your gums.
  • Do not brush too soon after eating. Acids in your food can compromise your tooth enamel for a short while, making them vulnerable to being stripped away by your brush.
  • Hold your brush at a forty-five degree angle to your teeth and brush in a circular motion so that you gently massage your gums.
  • Remember that plaque can gather on your tongue. Use a tongue scraper if you have one, or simply brush your tongue.
  • If you’re so inclined, follow up your brushing with mouthwash. There are many good options available to give your teeth the extra edge they need.