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Important But Rarely Asked Questions About Brushing Teeth

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Brushing teeth is a standard oral hygiene practice that enhances dental health. Dentists often advise people to brush their teeth after every meal or at least twice a day. It eliminates the chances of food particles rotting and bacteria staining the teeth and infecting the gums. However, it is easy to assume you know everything about brushing teeth, but that might not be true. As simple as it seems, brushing teeth requires a careful approach, and only a dentist can guide you. This article highlights crucial questions about teeth brushing that people should ask dentists but rarely do.

What Toothbrush Should I Use?

Toothbrush manufacturers have continued to take advantage of consumerism and bombard consumers with various toothbrushes to choose from. Today, you can find all manner of toothbrushes ranging from electric and manual to inter-dental and ecological. Unfortunately, most of the toothbrushes boast gimmicks that claim to make them better than other types. However, the truth is that most of the unique features are only used for marketing purposes and nothing more. According to dentists, the toothbrush design you choose does not matter greatly. The most important thing is how you use the toothbrush to keep your teeth, tongue, gums and cheeks clean. As long as you brush 2–3 times a day for at least three minutes at a time, the type of brush you use matters little.

How Hard Should I Brush My Teeth?

Have you ever stepped back one morning to ask yourself how hard you are brushing your teeth? Not many people think about this, especially if they brush immediately after eating. You want to make sure you are brushing hard enough to get between all your teeth, but you should be careful not to use too much pressure when using a hard-bristled toothbrush as this can be harmful to your teeth and gums.

Natural or Traditional Toothpaste?

Walk around local stores, malls and supermarkets, and you will be surprised by the number of products labelled 'natural.' It can be attributed to the fact that most people are fascinated by the health benefits of everything natural. However, when it comes to toothpaste, natural is not always the best, primarily because most lack fluoride. Notably, fluoride is a critical ingredient in preventing cavities and tooth decay, and all you need is a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Furthermore, the fluoride that remains in the mouth after brushing becomes part of the saliva and strengthens the teeth. For these reasons, you are better off using toothpaste fortified with fluoride.


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