Store your toothbrush close enough to the sink so it is easy to reach, but far enough away that you won’t accidentally knock it into the sink and get electrocuted if the toothbrush is plugged in. Consider keeping extra batteries on hand so that you can always brush your teeth.
Make sure the bristles don’t have any sharp or jagged edges or endpoints. Make sure that the bristles are not falling out. Also, check the colored bristles. If they start fading, it means that you should change the tip with a new one. Replace your electronic toothbrush head every three to four months, or more often if you notice any of the above-mentioned issues
Consider using a fluoride toothpaste, which can help strengthen your teeth and remove plaque that causes disease and decay.
You can start with whichever quadrant you like or is most comfortable to you and you should spend about 40 seconds on each quadrant while brushing every single surface of your teeth. Make sure to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth.
Apply only gentle pressure, as too much can injure your teeth and gums. The vibrations of your electronic toothbrush can also add a little additional pressure. [4] X Research source
The rolling motion is achieved by contacting the brush to the gum line and then moving downward with the toothbrush towards the chewing surface. Also, brush your gums with gentle pressure and avoid holding the brush for too long next to the gum line because the rotation can cause gum recession over time. To brush behind your front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make up and down strokes using only the front half of your brush.
Use a gentle back and forth scrubbing motion to clean the biting surfaces and your tongue. Use an equally or more gentle back and forth motion to clean your soft palate, or the roof of your mouth.
You can even brush a little longer than 2 minutes, which will give you time to clean under your tongue and scrape your tongue and the roof of your mouth. [8] X Research source Tu Anh Vu, DMD. Dentist. Personal interview. 7 May 2020. Pressing too hard can damage your gums or wear down your enamel. [9] X Research source Wait 15 to 20 minutes after eating or drinking acidic foods to help maintain your enamel. [10] X Research source This will provide plenty of time for the saliva to remineralize the enamel and create an alkaline environment. Instead, chew a piece of sugar-free gum that contains xylitol after meals and before brushing.
Remove about 18 inches (46 cm) of floss from the packaging. Wrap it around your middle fingers. You can then grasp the floss between your thumbs and forefingers which can help you clean more effectively. [11] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Make sure to be very gentle when guiding the floss between your teeth. Curve it against your tooth when it hits your gumline. Rub the side of each tooth with the floss in an up and down motion. Try to remove the plaque formed under your gums and practice until you get the best results. You may brush or floss first. A small study has shown, however, that flossing before brushing may increase the efficacy of fluoride.
Swish around the water and mouthwash in your mouth. Mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine are generally the preferred type of mouthwash. Products that contain alcohol may dry out your mouth and cause bad breath or even sores or ulcers.
Rinsing off your toothbrush with tap water will clean off any lingering toothpaste or debris. Avoid covering your toothbrush head, which can help promote the growth of bacteria. Make sure you store the toothbrush in an upright position.
Brush and floss 15 - 20 minutes after meals if you are able. If you have food or other debris lingering in your teeth, it can promote infection and decay. Chewing a piece of gum may help minimize this risk if you don’t have a toothbrush available. [15] X Research source
A healthy and well-balanced diet of lean protein, fruits and vegetables, and legumes can promote your overall well-being, including oral health. Raw fruits and vegetables are best. Raw fruits and vegetables help clean the teeth. Also, stick to whole grain bread and avoid sugary foods. Some otherwise healthy foods are acidic. This includes citrus fruits and wine. Continue to enjoy these foods and beverages, but reduce how much you consume and consider brushing your teeth 15 to 20 minutes after you’re done to prevent enamel loss. Some examples of sugary and acidic foods and beverages of which to steer clear are soft drinks, sweets, candies, and wine.
Grinding can cause tooth sensitivity and damage including chips and cracks. Biting your nails, opening bottles or keeping objects between your teeth are also bad habits. Avoid these habits as much as possible so that you don’t damage your teeth.
For instance, a small cavity might be treated with just a filling, but if you wait, you may end up needing a root canal instead. [18] X Research source Tu Anh Vu, DMD. Dentist. Personal interview. 7 May 2020.
