This is a question I, and my dental hygienists Kambri and Karen, get asked a lot. There are a few tips I can pass along to get the most out of brushing your teeth.
Brushing right after eating is not advised. Brushing too soon after a meal can wear down the enamel of the teeth, since most foods have acids that weaken teeth. Give time for saliva, which carries proteins and enzymes, to wash over and strengthen teeth before brushing.
Don’t scrub your teeth too hard while brushing. Use a soft bristle brush. Brushing too hard or with a hard bristled brush can damage your tooth enamel and gums, leading to an easier way for decay. If your brush starts to fray after a couple of weeks of use, then you are brushing too hard.
Our team always recommends a fluoride treatment at every 6 month hygiene appointment cleaning, but we also recommend using a toothpaste that has fluoride in it in addition to the in-office treatment. Fluoride strengthens teeth and can help prevent cavities. Just make sure to not swallow any fluoride toothpaste.
Our team also recommends changing out your toothbrush every three to six months. The next time you visit our office, find out how you can receive a free toothbrush kit every time you come in for a cleaning!
Call today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Connell at 504-533-4105.
May 17, 2017
