Tooth brushing Mistake No.3: “Not Brushing Often Enough or Long Enough”

tooth brush

Are you taking too little time to brush your pearly whites? Although your orthodontist can perfect your smile with braces and invisalign, the health of your teeth is just as important as the appearance. Brushing often enough and long enough keeps your teeth healthy and strong.

How Often Should I Brush?

It is ideal to brush your teeth at least twice per day, in the morning when you wake up, and again at night before you go to bed. People with invisalign or braces often like to brush more often to remove food particles, but brushing immediately after a meal is not recommended. Acidic foods and drinks are damaging to the tooth, and brushing too soon after eating or drinking can remove some of the weakened enamel. If you’ve just eaten, wait for at least 30 minutes before you brush your teeth.

How Long Should I Brush For?

Thoroughly brushing your teeth should take at least two minutes. This equates to one minute for each row of teeth. For people who find it difficult to brush for that long, a timer or a self-timed electric toothbrush helps you to gauge the time you’ve spent brushing. Your orthodontist can make excellent recommendations for an electronic toothbrush to fit your specific needs.

Healthy Teeth Make Beautiful Smiles

Clean, healthy teeth are the foundations of smiles that WOW! As you think about how often and how long to brush your teeth, the number “two” can help you to remember:
• brush at least twice a day
• brush for at least two minutes each time

 

Learn More about Orthodontia at Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics

Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics is located in Larkspur, Calif., in Marin County. There are three experts at our facility who can determine if you need to wear aligners or braces. Schedule an appointment with an orthodontist:

• Dr. Jeff Nichelini
• Dr. Bill Schmohl
• Dr. Jasmine Gorton

To make your orthodontic treatment more personalized or faster, you can choose to use the Acceledent or WowSmiles systems along with these devices:

• WildSmiles
• Damon Clear
• Invisalign
• Retainers

Visit Gorton and Schmol Orthodontics today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how the Invisalign system can help you.

Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics
900 Larkspur Landing Circle,Suite 200 Larkspur CA 94939 Tel: (415)-459-8006

Tooth brushing Mistake No.3: “Not Brushing Often Enough or Long Enough”