We all know how crucial daily teeth brushing is — but have you ever wondered how often you should brush your teeth a day? Dentists stress proper oral care, and brushing is an essential part of that. By doing so, you can ensure plaque does not lodge on your teeth, which means fewer cavities, fresh breath, and overall excellent oral health. So, how many times should you brush your teeth a day? Continue reading to learn!
How Often Should You Brush Your Teeth?
It is highly recommended by dentists to brush your teeth two times every day, once in the morning and once in the evening. According to American Dental Association, you should take 2 whole minutes to brush your teeth thoroughly using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Moreover, it is advised to use fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth. By brushing your teeth, you remove plaque and food particles that stick to the dental enamel. If you don’t, the plaque and acids from your foods will react, breaking down the tooth enamel. Therefore, always brush your teeth two times a day.
How Many Times Should Children Brush Their Teeth
Dental care is important from the time the first tooth cuts through the gums. Hence, using a soft-bristled toothbrush recommended by a pediatrician, you should start cleaning your infant’s first tooth from the time it appears. Visit a pediatric dentist to know which type of toothbrush and toothpaste to use for an infant. When the child reaches the age of 3 to 6 years, dentists recommend using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste to brush their teeth. Children, too, should brush their teeth for 2 minutes every time, twice daily.
Parents or a trusted adult should supervise the kids while they are brushing their teeth since kids are prone to swallowing toothpaste. Practicing proper oral care early on will help build a steady routine that they can upkeep when they grow up as well.
Tips to Brush Your Teeth in the Proper Manner
Here are some tips for maintaining an adequate brushing routine:
- Pick the Right Toothbrush: It is extremely important that you choose the right toothbrush for yourself. Ideally, you should opt for a toothbrush that has rounded bristles.
- Don’t Brush After Consuming Acidic Food: Another important tip for brushing your teeth is to avoid doing so after you have had acidic food or a drink. This is because since acid weakens your dental enamel, brushing immediately after can actually damage your teeth.
- Practice Proper Strokes When Brushing: Brushing is good, but brushing with the right strokes is critical. Therefore, brush back and forth, short strokes to clean every surface of each tooth. Moreover, brush in a gentle manner making small circles.
- Flossing: Brushing should also be accompanied by flossing once a day. Scrubbing your teeth will not get rid of the particles stuck between the teeth. By flossing, you can eliminate plaque and debris in hard-to-reach places.
- Fluoride Toothpaste: When you are brushing, use toothpaste containing fluoride. This mineral helps strengthen your teeth, giving you a healthy smile.
Final Word
If you’re wondering how many times to brush your teeth a day, it is recommended to brush twice daily. For more information, visit our Champions Dental team at 13455 Cutten Rd. Suite 2g, Houston, TX, 77069, or give us a ring at (281) 866-0442.