A solid brushing routine is the foundation of a bright, healthy smile. The New Year is a perfect time to review these habits. At CITIDental Boston, we encourage patients to use this time to reinforce proper brushing techniques and commit to consistent dental care for a confident and vibrant smile.
Why Proper Brushing Matters
Brushing removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Maintaining good brushing habits not only keeps your teeth and gums healthy but also prevents the need for extensive dental treatments in the future.
Tips for Healthy Brushing Habits
- Brush Twice a Day: Develop a consistent habit of brushing in the morning and before bed. Brushing at night is especially crucial to remove debris and plaque buildup from the day.
- Use the Right Technique: Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, circular motions to clean all tooth surfaces. Opt for a more gentle scrubbing motion to prevent irritation to your enamel and gums.
- Choose the Right Tools: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Electric toothbrushes can be a helpful tool for achieving thorough cleaning.
- Replace Your Toothbrush: Swap your toothbrush or brush head every three months or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
- Don’t Forget Your Tongue: Bacteria on your tongue can contribute to bad breath and plaque buildup, so gently brush or scrape your tongue daily.
Make It a Family Affair
Encouraging healthy habits as a family can make brushing more enjoyable for everyone. You can make it fun by playing a music track to time yourself. For children, use age-appropriate brushes and toothpastes to foster good habits early.
Complement Brushing with Other Healthy Habits
Brushing is just one part of a complete oral care routine. You should also:
- Floss daily. This removes debris between teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Rinse with mouthwash. This helps to clean unwanted bacteria from your mouth and also leaves you with fresh breath
- Visit the dentist regularly for dental checkups and cleanings. It’s best to schedule appointments at least every six months. Your dentist uses professional cleaning methods that remove plaque and tartar that you can’t clean on your own through brushing and flossing. You’ll also get checked for cavities, oral cancer, and any other abnormalities. When problems like these are caught early, they’re much easier to address.
Kick Off the New Year with CITIDental Boston
The start of the year is a great time to schedule a professional cleaning and exam. Our team will assess your oral health, provide personalized recommendations, and ensure your smile is ready to shine in 2025.