Blog

When it comes to good oral hygiene, we all know it basically boils down to how good our brushing habits are. While different people brush at different frequencies, the main idea is to ensure that your teeth are free from any food deposits so as to avoid tooth decay and gum disease. It is also common to vary your brushing frequency to suit your dietary habits such as adding one more bushing session after eating sticky foods. 

If you are a Palm Coast or Saint Augustine resident in Florida, visit Dental Specialists of North Florida for dental treatment.

What Does Brushing Do to Your Teeth?

Brushing actually helps keep your teeth and gums clean. Using a soft brush and a small amount of toothpaste, brushing the teeth helps remove food deposits from the biting surfaces of the teeth and eliminate the thin film on the non-biting surfaces. 

These deposits are usually the places where decay begins. If brushing is not done right, then dental diseases set in and progress with various complications.

How Many Times Is Brushing Your Teeth Adequate? 

The norm is to brush your teeth twice a day – once in the morning, and once at night, for about 2 minutes using a soft-bristled brush. Any toothpaste can be used. Some prefer gels that give a fresh feeling, others prefer fluoride toothpaste which is proven to protect teeth from decay. 

There are some folks who do not believe in brushing first thing in the morning, but after breakfast so that they leave home with a clean mouth.  

For children in particular, given the fact that they eat more sticky and chewy foods, it is advisable to get them to brush after each meal. However, given that they may sometimes not be at home, it is advisable to get them to rinse well after each meal.

In addition to brushing, flossing is also required as food stuck in between the teeth can also lead to decay. Interdental brushes are also available and can be used once daily.

It is also very important to follow the right technique, as improper brushing can cause abrasion of the teeth.

For help with proper brushing techniques and dental care in Saint Augustine or Palm Coast, Florida, call the Dental Specialists of North Florida office at (904) 794-1000 or (386) 986-1000 to schedule an appointment.