The reminders are promoted widely and often, from your dentist’s office to television commercials:
For optimal oral health, brush your teeth two times daily for two minutes each time. Quick math will show you this is a serious commitment, but it is important to note it is one with real BITE too.
Yes, the average person will spend 80 days brushing her teeth based on these recommendations. Understanding just how valuable that investment is to your oral health and overall health is key to sticking with your commitment.
The American Dental Association is very clear about the guidelines, as shared on their website. “The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. Nothing works better to remove plaque and prevent cavities.”
A recent poll found the number of people who actually brush their teeth twice daily was much lower than expected. Only 44% of men and 37% of women responded they brush their teeth twice a day. The larger number said they brush only once a day – 49% of men and 57% of women. The poll was conducted by Reddit user anthonyd3ca in a survey to 562 people.
Experts agree, brushing teeth just once a day and often for less than the recommended two minutes per brushing, could leave teeth vulnerable to the plaque that builds up, potentially causing tooth decay and/or gum disease.
The ADA provides a detailed list of valuable details for your oral health routine and how to maintain the healthy mouth and healthy smile desired. As outlined on their website:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. The size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth allowing you to reach all areas easily.
- Replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won’t do a good job of cleaning your teeth.
- Make sure to use an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste.
- Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.
- Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
- Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes.
- Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.
The ADA also reminds us that brushing is not the only vital step, as also outlined on their website:
- Clean between teeth daily with floss. Tooth decay-causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. This helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.
To help with thorough brushing and committed oral health routines, the ADA provides the following detailed instructions and guidelines:
How to Brush (click to download)
Being lazy with oral hygiene can create problems that will require much more of your time and attention than daily brushing and regular check ups. The key is to be proactive and take care of your teeth while they are still healthy.
That’s the truth. Or perhaps you could say, the “trooth”.
Changing Lives, One Smile at a Time
Dr. Randall Burba is an AACD accredited dentist, practicing in Salem, MA. He considers himself an artist – with teeth and beyond! He often paints, draws and has a passion for woodworking. Follow Burba Dental Partners on Twitter and Facebook.
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