Brushing up on Dental Care Basics

Oral health begins with clean teeth. Keeping the area where your teeth meet your gums clean can prevent gum disease, and keeping your tooth surfaces clean can help you avoid cavities. Dr. Chapman of Chapman Orthodontics offers the following tips to his patients in Brownsburg, IN.

1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day. When you brush, don’t rush. Dr. Chapman recommends brushing for two minutes twice a day, and more frequently if you have braces — take enough time to do a thorough job.

2. Use the proper equipment. We at Chapman Orthodontics recommend using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits your mouth comfortably. Electric/battery-operated toothbrushes reduce plaque and the chance of gum disease more than does manual brushing, and these devices are helpful if you have arthritis or other problems that make it difficult to brush effectively.

3. Practice good techniques. Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle — aiming the bristles toward the area where your tooth meets your gum. Again Dr. Chapman reminds patients that keeping the area where your teeth meet your gums clean can prevent gum disease. Also, don’t forget to gently brush the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as your tongue, with short back-and-forth motions.

4. Keep your equipment clean. Always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing. Dr. Chapman also stresses that you store your toothbrush in an upright position, if possible, and allow it to air-dry until using it again. Toothbrush Tip: don’t routinely cover toothbrushes or store them in closed containers, it can encourage the growth of bacteria.

5. Know when to replace your toothbrush. Invest in a new toothbrush or a replacement head for your electric or battery-operated toothbrush every three to four months — or sooner if the bristles become frayed.

Follow these basic tips daily and keep up with your appointments to Chapman Orthodontics and you’ll have the best smile in town! Call Dr. Chapman TODAY at 317.484.6388, if you’ve missed or need to schedule an appointment.