Brushing Hard or Hardly Brushing? Your Ultimate Guide to Teeth Cleaning

Are you brushing correctly, and are you aware of all the essential steps for effective oral care?
In this blog, we will walk you through everything you need to understand about dental hygiene. From the basics of brushing to professional dental care recommendations. Keep reading to learn more.

Why is Proper Teeth Cleaning Important?

Regular dental hygiene provides crucial benefits that extend far beyond basic cleanliness:

• Prevents tooth decay and gum disease by removing plaque regularly
• Stops harmful bacteria from spreading and causing body-wide inflammation
• Maintains fresh breath and oral cleanliness
• Reduces long-term dental expenses through preventive care
• Boosts personal confidence with a healthy smile
• Supports overall health by maintaining oral wellness

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Teeth

1. Choose the Right Toothbrush

The foundation of effective oral care begins with proper equipment:

• Choose soft-bristled brushes specifically designed to protect enamel integrity
• Consider electric toothbrush options for individuals with compromised motor skills due to age or medical conditions. They offer ease of use and efficient plaque removal.
• Replace brushes or brush heads every 3-4 months without exception

2. Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride is a key ingredient for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing decay.

• Use ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste for optimal protection.
• Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for effective cleaning.

Disclaimer: Few points to remember when considering fluorides:

• Not recommended for infants, may lead to enamel fluorosis.
• Even for older children, less than 500 ppm is recommended.
• For adults : 800-1000 ppm

It is always recommended to consult a professional when considering fluorides and also reading labels to understand your toothpaste composition.

3. Brush Twice a Day (and Correctly)

Brushing your teeth properly is critical for effective cleaning. Here’s how to do it right:

• Position brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line
• Implement gentle circular motions to protect enamel
• Clean for a minimum of two minutes during each session
• Cover all tooth surfaces systematically and thoroughly
• Pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas
• Focus on the gum line where bacteria frequently accumulate

4. Don’t Forget to Floss

While brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, flossing removes debris and plaque between teeth and along the gum line.

• Use 18 inches of floss to ensure clean sections for each tooth
• Create a proper C-shape around each tooth structure
• Clean below the gum line carefully but thoroughly
• Floss daily without exception, preferably before brushing
• Maintain consistent pressure without causing damage
• Address each tooth from multiple angles for complete cleaning

5. Use Mouthwash for Added Benefits

Mouthwash isn’t a replacement for brushing or flossing, nor recommended for daily use, but it provides additional benefits.
A number of different types are readily available in the stores now, with them including:

• Antimicrobials Mouthwashes- those that kill the bacteria that lead to bad breath and gum disease.
• Fluoride mouthwashes that strengthens and makes the tooth resistant to damage and prevent it from rotting.
• Moreover, ones for dry mouth and freshness are also available.

Another important question you need to be asking the dentist during the next visit: “Is mouthwash necessary for me and if so, which type to use along with how long to do so?”
**Though putting the importance of mouthwash to one side, it is not the key focus as it may cause some side effects such as staining and dryness.

6. Clean Your Tongue

The core issue stems from the reality that your tongue acts as a genuine bacteria factory, potentially leading to bad breath and dental health issues.

• Utilize a tongue scraper or the rear of your toothbrush to effectively clean your tongue.
• Begin at the rear of the tongue and proceed forward, rinsing following each stroke.

7. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

“Prevention is always better than cure” is the phrase that continues to be true in life and health. And it is usually much less expensive to solve problems like this rather than treating them afterwards.
Therefore, regular dental visits every 6 months will be vital to your oral health by having the treatment it needs to be appropriate in the least costly way such as teeth cleanings and early detection of issues like cavities or gum disease.
PRO-TIP:
During your upcoming dental appointment, remember to request demonstrations of the proper brushing and flossing techniques from your dentist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, many people make mistakes in their oral hygiene routine.
Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

1. Using a Hard-Bristle Brush
Hard bristles can damage tooth enamel and irritate gums. Stick to soft-bristle brushes.
2. Using Harsh Products or Incorrect Brushing Technique
Brushing with excessive pressure damages enamel.
Avoid tooth powders and opt for mild toothpastes with less coarse particles to protect your enamel.
3. Skipping Flossing
Flossing is just as important as brushing. Neglecting it leaves plaque between teeth, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease.
4. Overbrushing or Brushing after every meal
It can damage your teeth enamel, brushing twice daily correctly for 2-4 minutes and rinsing post meals is sufficient.
5. Not Replacing Your Toothbrush on Time
Overused or frayed brushes lose their effectiveness. Replace yours every 3-4 months.

Tips for Long-Term Oral Health

Maintaining good oral hygiene requires consistent effort. Follow these tips to keep your smile healthy:

Essential Tips for Success

NOTE: You can add rinses or mouthwashes as per schedule recommended by your dentist.

Why Choose Clove Dental for Your Oral Care Needs?

At Clove Dental, we believe in delivering exceptional care tailored to your needs. Here’s why we’re the best choice for your oral health:

• Experienced practitioner team
• Modern technological integration
• Comprehensive treatment approach
• Individualized care protocols

Treatment Options and Pricing Guide

Understanding dental treatment costs helps you plan for your oral health needs effectively. At Clove Dental, we offer various professional cleaning services to address different levels of oral care requirements:

Basic Professional Cleaning

Our basic teeth cleaning service includes:

• Scaling, i.e., basic professional cleaning, starts at ₹1690 performed to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
• Polishing, which smoothens the tooth surface for a cleaner finish, starts at ₹690.

Advanced Cleaning Procedures

For patients requiring more intensive care:

• Scaling and Root Planing: A comprehensive deep cleaning procedure that extends below the gum line to prevent periodontal disease progression
• Deep scaling services starting at ₹2490 for full mouth procedure

Comprehensive Dental Plans

To make quality dental care more accessible, Clove Dental offers exclusive dental plans designed to provide maximum value and coverage:
Plan Benefits Include:

• Unlimited Consultations: Access to expert dental advice whenever needed
• Unlimited Dental X-Rays: Comprehensive diagnostic services included

Discounted Treatments: Special pricing on various procedures, including:

• Professional cleaning services
• Root planing treatments
• Advanced procedures such as Aligners and Implants

Note: Visit your nearest Clove Dental clinic for personalized treatment plans and pricing. A comprehensive check-up helps determine the best treatment for your unique needs.

FAQs:

1. How long should I brush my teeth?
Minimum 2-4 minutes, twice daily, using correct technique.
2. Can mouthwash replace brushing and flossing?
It complements brushing and flossing but doesn’t replace them.
3. What’s the best toothbrush for sensitive teeth?
Soft toothbrushes having softer filaments are ideal for delicate gums and sensitive teeth.
4. How often should I visit the dentist for a cleaning?
We recommend biannual visits to your dentist to assess the need for cleaning depending on your lifestyle, age , condition of your teeth.

By- Dr. Shreya Singh