The Skinny on Brushing

The Importance of Flossing 3 Things Everyone Should Know About Their Dental Insurance

What to Do and How Often to Do It

Research shows that, above all else, TIMING is key when it comes to brushing. Ideally you should brush at least two times a day, for 2 MINUTES at a time. Most adults don't come close to brushing that long. One good trick for getting your time in appropriately is to use a stopwatch, focusing for 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth (upper left, lower left, lower right, upper right). To take the guess work out of it, you can always invest in an electric toothbrush, many of which are timed to lead you through a proper brushing experience.

Now of course, timing isn't EVERYTHING. Technique is also critical in maintaining excellent oral health. You want to use short, gentle strokes and pay extra attention to your gum line, keeping the bristles at a 45-degree angle to your teeth. Make sure to hit the outer, inner and top surfaces of each tooth, focusing on two to three teeth at a time. To help keep breath fresh, don't forget to brush that tongue!

Once you've got the timing and technique down, it's time to consider the right instruments to use. We recommend a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles (make sure you replace it every 3 months!). If you are interested in an electric toothbrush to take the guesswork out of the equation, the two we really like are:

Rotadent Electric Toothbrush Sonicare Electric Toothbrush

Toothpaste choice will ultimately depend on your needs and your dentist's recommendation. We like to recommend a fluoridated toothpaste to help keep your teeth strong. If you experience sensitivity or are interested in whitening, there are a world of options out there: talk to your dental professional about which is right for you!