Boost Your Tooth-Brushing Game: 3 Tips for Healthier Teeth

Getting a professional teeth cleaning at the dentist feels like a reset for your mouth. Your teeth are scrubbed, polished, and left shining. But here’s the catch: keeping them that way is up to you! Your dental health routine at home can make or break the health of your teeth. So, let’s dive into three easy ways to step up your tooth-brushing game and improve your overall health.

1. Understand Why Dental Health Matters

Every time you eat or drink, food particles and bacteria cling to your teeth. This sticky film is called plaque, and if left too long, it hardens into tartar, which can’t be removed by brushing alone. Plaque and tartar are breeding grounds for bacteria that release acids, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even infections.

Dr. Tien Jiang, a prosthodontist at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, explains that plaque-related bacteria can also travel to other parts of your body, like your heart, brain, and lungs. The consequences of poor dental health go beyond just tooth pain and gum issues. Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and even pneumonia have been linked to bad oral health.

Now that you know the risks, keeping plaque under control should be a top priority. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to preventing the harmful effects of plaque buildup.

2. Choose the Right Toothbrush for You

With so many toothbrush options on the market—from manual brushes to high-tech electric models—it can be overwhelming to know what to pick. But here’s the thing: it’s not about the toothbrush, it’s about how you use it.

Dr. Jiang advises that while fancy electric toothbrushes can make brushing easier, technique is still key. It’s important to choose a toothbrush that you like and will use consistently. Here are a few tips:

Pick the right bristles: If you have sensitive gums, go for a soft-bristled brush to avoid irritation. If your gums are healthy, hard bristles are fine.
Change your brush regularly: Over time, bristles wear out. If they’re splayed or you don’t feel your teeth are clean after brushing, it’s time to replace your brush.
Electric brushes are okay: If you prefer an electric toothbrush, Dr. Jiang says that’s fine too. Whether it’s a high-tech model with sensors or a simple battery-operated version, just make sure you’re comfortable using it. And, if you’re unsure how to use it properly, ask your dental hygienist at your next cleaning.

3. Master the Right Brushing Technique

No matter what toothbrush you choose, your brushing technique is the most important factor. Dr. Jiang recommends brushing twice a day, with flossing either before or after brushing, to ensure your teeth stay clean.

Here’s how to brush like a pro:

Use fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride helps fight cavities and strengthens enamel.
Brush for 2 minutes: Divide the time between your top left, top right, bottom left, and bottom right teeth (30 seconds per section).
Angle your brush at 45 degrees: Aim the bristles toward where your gums meet your teeth. This is where plaque tends to accumulate.
Make small circles: Gently rotate the brush in small circular motions to clean the gum line and teeth surface.
Be gentle: Pressing too hard can irritate your gums. Let the brush do the work.
Don’t forget your tongue: It collects bacteria that need to be cleaned away, so give it a quick brush too.
Rinse everything: After brushing, rinse your mouth and brush to remove any leftover toothpaste and debris.
Check your gums: After brushing, pull back your lips and check your gums. They should look pink and healthy, not swollen or red. If there’s food left around your teeth, you might need to brush again.

If you’re unsure whether you’re brushing correctly, Dr. Jiang suggests practicing without toothpaste. When you run your tongue across your teeth, they should feel smooth with no leftover debris.

Regular Checkups Are Key

Even with the best at-home brushing routine, regular cleanings at the dentist are essential. Visit your hygienist every six months for a deep clean and checkup. If you notice any issues between visits—like bleeding gums or tooth pain—don’t hesitate to call your dentist.

Remember, keeping your teeth healthy isn’t just about the dentist’s office. It’s about committing to good habits at home, brushing and flossing with care, and understanding why your oral health matters. Take control of your dental hygiene, and your teeth will thank you!