Learning About Teeth Brushing at Your Next Dental Checkup

Learning About Teeth Brushing at Your Next Dental Checkup from Davis & Dingle Family Dentistry in Columbia, SCThe next time you go in for a dental checkup, talk to your dentist specifically about brushing. As a child, your parents probably taught you to brush your teeth after every meal. However, they might not have shared much information as to why. After talking to your dentist, you will gain some invaluable insight. By applying this new knowledge on a regular basis, your teeth will look and feel amazing.

Start with the right toothbrush and toothpaste

When it comes to brushing, people need to choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste. For this, an individual can select between manual and electric. Of the two, dentists recommend that patients use an electric toothbrush. If necessary, a dentist can show a person the proper way to use it during a dental checkup. As for toothpaste, dentists typically suggest a brand that contains fluoride.

The correct motion when brushing

Perhaps one of the most surprising things that people learn about during a dental checkup has to do with using the correct motion. Often, people brush their teeth by going up and down and back and forth. However, for optimal results, dentists recommend going in circles. This is why the bristles on so many electric toothbrushes move in a circular motion.

The amount of time to brush

For anyone who heard to brush a full two minutes but scoffed at the idea, they might want to change their opinion. The correct amount of time to brush is also something a dentist will cover during a dental checkup. Simply put, the two-minute rule is spot on. Otherwise, even a top-rated toothbrush does not fully clean the teeth and around the gums.

The frequency of brushing

As for how often someone should brush, the goal is after every meal. Considering that is not always possible, people should target at least twice a day. During a dental checkup, some dentists give their patients a small toothbrush and tube of toothpaste to take home. Patients could put those inside of a purse or in a desk at work, allowing them to brush more often.

How to hold the toothbrush correctly

The angle at which an individual holds a toothbrush is also surprising. For the best coverage, a person should hold it at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline. If needed, a dentist can do a demonstration during a dental checkup. Even this makes a big difference in how well the toothbrush works to clean.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Checkup in Columbia, SC

Get a dental checkup for good oral care

To achieve and maintain healthy teeth and gums, you want to do three specific things. First, have a dental checkup performed every six months. Second, brush your teeth correctly. Third, while brushing, do not forget to floss. With these things combined, you will have far fewer dental problems. If you want to learn more about oral care, make an appointment with a dentist near you as soon as possible.

Request an appointment or call Davis & Dingle Family Dentistry at 803-567-1804 for an appointment in our Columbia office.

Recent Posts

Tips For Your Fear Of A Dental Checkup

There are many reasons you should have a dental checkup, but it is not uncommon to have a fear of the dentist. The gums, teeth, and tongue all play a significant role in helping you have a nutritious diet. When these do not work well, you may not be able to eat the right foods.…

Dental Visit - Dental Checkup And Cleaning

Getting a dental checkup is one of the essential steps in your oral care routine. But you might wonder what you can expect during a checkup and cleaning. That way, you can make a more informed decision for your health. Keep reading to learn more about what the procedure involves.The dental hygienist and dentist will…

Who Needs A Dental Checkup?

A dental clinic can be just a block away, but it would still take a lot of convincing before any patients go for a dental checkup. Busy schedules often make people overlook or even dismiss the discomfort in gums and teeth. It is not easy to withstand dental pain and swelling. Pain relievers can only…

Recent Posts

Denture Repair When They Break

Denture Repair When They Break

A denture repair should be your top priority when your denture breaks or becomes damaged. This prosthetic device fills out all the empty spaces in your mouth. It is crucial to care for your denture since the missing teeth can compromise your eating habits, speech, and appearance. This dental device is durable enough to handle…

How General Dentists Detect And Treat Common Dental Problems

How General Dentists Detect And Treat Common Dental Problems

Though we go to our general dentist all the time, one thing that not everyone considers is the fact that the dentist is the one that handles most of our oral health issues. How is it that one dentist is responsible for treating and diagnosing so many of our problems without the help of specialists…