The Importance of Brushing Your Teeth
We have all been told that brushing our teeth is important, but what does it actually do? The reason that brushing our teeth is so effective for maintaining good oral hygiene, is because it removes plaque.
Plaque is made up of acid, bacteria and food debris and if too much of it builds up on our teeth, it can lead to tooth decay. Therefore, brushing your teeth twice a day for three minutes, with a fluoride toothpaste, is important for reducing your risk of tooth decay.
How to Brush Your Teeth Effectively
There are a few ways that you can ensure that you are brushing your teeth properly, including:
- Using a toothbrush with soft bristles
- Using a gentle pressure to brush your teeth
- Replacing your toothbrush every 3-4 months
- Brushing at a 45-degree angle
- Brushing all the surfaces of your teeth
- Brushing your tongue twice a day
Manual vs Electric
Both manual and electric toothbrushes are effective for maintaining good oral hygiene, however, both have their pros and cons.
Manual Toothbrushes
- Pros
Manual toothbrushes are sold at most shops, making them easy to purchase. They are also relatively cheap, making them accessible to most people.
- Cons
When using manual toothbrushes, it has been found that people brush too hard, which can damage the gums and teeth. Additionally, as people who brush manually don’t have timers on their brushes, sometimes the teeth are not brushed for long enough.
Electric Toothbrushes
- Pros
Studies suggest that electric toothbrushes are more effective at preventing gum disease and removing plaque than manual toothbrushes. They can also be an effective option for people with mobility issues like arthritis.
- Cons
Electric toothbrushes can be expensive, making them inaccessible to some people due to cost. It is also sometimes difficult to find the right toothbrush heads, making electric toothbrushes less available than manual brushes. Additionally, traveling can be hard, as there is a need to purchase extra travel adaptors to fit your electric toothbrush.
It Comes Down to Preference
Like with most things, choosing whether to use a manual or electric toothbrush comes down to personal preferences. Although the evidence suggests that electric toothbrushes are more effective overall, manual toothbrushes are still an excellent option for maintaining good oral hygiene.
Whatever method you choose is sufficient provided that you brush regularly using a fluoride toothpaste.
Dental Hygiene
Although brushing your teeth is incredibly important for maintaining oral health, flossing once a day, avoiding sugary foods and regular check-ups at the dentist are also essential.
If you are looking for a Dentist in Vic Park, our team at Aardent Dental has a wealth of experience in general and cosmetic dentistry, and we pride ourselves on our personalised consultations and customer service.
To book an appointment at our Vic Park dental practice, call us today on 6330 8666.
Recent Comments