Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock since, oh, June 26, 1498, it’s no news that a toothbrush is the single most important tool you can use to obtain healthy teeth and gums. Why is it, then, that a great deal of people do not brush on a regular basis? Maybe you do brush regularly, but aren’t sure if you’re doing it correctly.

Ideally, you should brush your teeth twice a day, but no more than three times daily, as more than this can strip the protective, tooth-strengthening enamel off of your chompers. It is recommended that we brush our teeth after every meal, but we tend to stray away from our toothbrushes during mid-day.

To properly brush your teeth, you must incorporate an “up and down” motion when brushing, as opposed to the ever-popular, yet incorrect, side-to-side routine. Be sure that you use a soft to medium toothbrush, as hard-bristled brushes can have the same effect of brushing too hard–bleeding gums and enamel depletion. You must also choose from the variety of toothpastes available. You can find anything from cavity protection to whitening teeth, but a “total care” toothpaste usually has a good balance of both.

{After developing a good brushing routine, you may wish to improve the whiteness of your teeth. This can be done by laser whitening, whitening trays, be mindful that these methods are not meant to be done on a regular basis–usually once, maybe twice a year is sufficient. Over-use of these products can weaken your teeth and cause sensitivity.}

Making the decision to follow these dental care tips is the first step to improving your teeth and gums. Make sure to get a proper toothbrush and remember to brush with less force and cover all the areas of your mouth. If you experience a sensitive teeth or a case such as teeth grinding, it is recommended that you see a dentist immediately.

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