Brushing your teeth is an important part of your oral hygiene routine. For a healthy mouth and smile Chapman Orthodontics recommends you:

Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. The size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth allowing you to reach all areas easily.

Replace your toothbrush every three or four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won’t do a good job of cleaning your teeth.

Chapman Orthodontics also says make sure to use ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste.

The proper brushing technique is to:

Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.

Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes.

Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.

To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes.

Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

Of course, brushing your teeth is only a part of a complete oral care routine. You should also make sure to:

Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner. Tooth decay-causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. This helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.

Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.

Although you are visiting Chapman Orthodontics, Dr. Chapman recommends that you visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams. If you have any questions or concerns, contact us in one of our locations in Brownsburg, or Plainfield.