By Millie Bevan
Many people do not realise that there is a right way to use manual (handheld) and Electric Toothbrushes. Using them incorrectly can lead to gum disease and tooth decay, which can be both painful and expensive to treat.
More and more people are buying Electric Toothbrushes because of their ease of use. These toothbrushes are good at removing plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Electric toothbrushes help lower the risk of gum disease and tooth decay by getting rid of plaque and bacteria. If you're thinking about switching to an Electric Toothbrush, or if you already have one but need some advice, here are some useful tips to help you out.
THE 30-MINUTE RULE
After you eat, the acid levels in your mouth go up, which can harm your teeth if you brush right away. This is because the acids from your food and drinks temporarily weaken the enamel, which is the hard outer layer of your teeth.
When enamel is weakened, it becomes softer and more vulnerable. Brushing while the enamel is softened can actually scrub away some of this protective layer. This can lead to increased sensitivity in teeth and make them more prone to decay and wear over time.
Waiting a bit allows your saliva to help balance the acids and re-harden the enamel, making it safer to brush without causing damage. So, waiting about 30 minutes after eating is a good idea.
SUCCESSFUL BRUSHING
1. It might seem simple, but it is easy to overlook - keeping your Toothbrush charged means you will not have to stop mid-brush. Always make sure your Toothbrush is charged and ready to go.
2. Next, to get the best results from brushing, choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Check the toothpaste label for a fluoride level that states it contains between 1,350 to 1,500ppmF. A pea-sized amount of toothpaste is enough for each brushing session. After brushing, just spit out the toothpaste. Don't rinse with water so the fluoride can keep working on your teeth.
3. As for how to brush, make sure to brush twice a day, in the morning and at night, and spend at least two minutes each time for a thorough clean. Think of your mouth as divided into four sections: upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left. Spend 30 seconds brushing each section, starting from the upper right and moving clockwise, to make sure every part of your mouth gets cleaned equally.
4. Position the head of your Toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Use gentle side-to-side motions to clean both the inside and outside surfaces of each tooth. Pay special attention to the chewing surfaces, as food tends to get stuck there, increasing the risk of decay.
5. With Electric Toothbrushes, a gentle touch is all you need. Brushing too hard can harm your gums and the surfaces of your teeth.
6. As a final tip for brushing, use your Electric Toothbrush to clean the surface of your tongue. This helps freshen your breath and reduce bacteria.
REGULARLY REPLACE BRUSH HEADS
Remember to replace the Toothbrush head every three months. Over time, bristles can get worn and splayed, reducing their cleaning effectiveness and allowing bacteria to build up. Changing the head regularly ensures a more effective cleaning.
To make this easier and more cost-effective, consider Kent Oral Care Subscription. This service delivers new brush heads and other oral health products right to your door at intervals you choose, ensuring you always have a fresh, effective toothbrush head without any extra effort.
HAPPY SMILES
By using these helpful tips when brushing your teeth, you can improve your dental care and lower your chances of having tooth problems. Just make sure you have the right tools—like those from Kent—and you will always have a bright smile!
Author Bio
Camilla Bevan (Millie) is a dually qualified dental hygienist and dental therapist. She graduated from the University of Manchester with a BSc in Oral Health Science in 2016. She has a keen interest in treating a wide range of patients’ needs, from straightforward maintenance to the most challenging cases, including susceptibility to gum disease and complex reconstruction of teeth and implants.
Learn more about Millie here>
