What is the correct way to brush your teeth? Unveiling the secrets of how to brush properly

With almost seventeen years of service to patients and families in the Charlotte, North Carolina area, our team of professionals at Warrier Dentistry work alongside patients to educate them on how to care for the teeth and gums between routine dental examinations and cleanings. Taking good care of the smile is vital to achieving and maintaining oral health and wellness. Our providers are here to educate you and your family on specific needs, including the importance of proper brushing. If you are interested in learning more about how to brush properly, we invite you to continue reading.

Why is it important to properly brush my teeth?

Many of our patients approach our dental team with questions about how to care for their smiles when they’re not in the dental office. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is crucial to preventing problems such as gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth decay, and halitosis, or bad breath. Regular and effective brushing can also help in keeping the teeth clean, bright, and beautiful for life!

Our team at Warrier Family Dentistry also fully understands the repercussions of poor oral health, which includes the oral systemic connection. This is the known link between the health of one’s smile and the health of their body. Both bacteria and inflammation in the oral cavity can spread throughout the body, leaving patients at risk of certain health issues including diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, and respiratory diseases.

What do I need to properly brush my teeth?

· A toothbrush with soft bristles
· Fluoride toothpaste
· Dental floss
· Mouthwash (optional or as directed by your dentist)

How often do I need to replace my toothbrush?

Our team advises patients to replace their toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if a patient has had a recent illness (such as a cold or flu) or if the bristles of the brush are beginning to fray and spread apart.

How to brush properly: step by step!

· Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush
· Hold the toothbrush at an angle to the gums, around 45 degrees
· Brush the outermost surfaces of the teeth using gentle, short strokes on the front, back, and top
· Brush the innermost surfaces of the teeth as well, along with the chewing surfaces
· Brush the tongue to freshen breath and remove bacteria
· Rinse with water thoroughly after brushing
· Follow with a mouthwash if directed or desired

Be sure to brush for at least two minutes, and avoid brushing too hard or not brushing all surfaces of the teeth. Other mistakes may include not using fluoride toothpaste, not replacing the toothbrush as often as one should, and skipping the inner surfaces of the teeth.

Ensure your oral health and wellness with proper home dental care!

Are you located in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area and looking for a dental team that can educate you on home care of your teeth and gums? If you are ready to work with our providers here at Warrier Family Dentistry to discuss your personal oral health needs, we invite you to book an appointment at our state-of-the-art dental facility located in the Charlotte community and serving those in the surrounding areas. Call (704) 544-5500 or complete this form to schedule an appointment.

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head shot of Dr. Warrier

This article is

Medically Reviewed by 

Dr. Smita Warrier

Dr. Smita Warrier graduated dental school in 2004 from Tufts University in Boston. She relocated to Charlotte shortly after and started her practice in Ballantyne in 2007. She is very passionate about dentistry and providing top-notch care to her patients. 

She is a member of the American Dental Association as well as local and state dental organizations. She feels very strongly about staying abreast of the latest technologies and treatment care modalities and dedicates many hours in continuing education. 

She has been an Invisalign certified provider since 2006.

16143 Lancaster Highway,
Suite 101
Charlotte, NC – 28277

704 544 5500

Mon – Thu: 8am – 4:30pm
Friday: By Appointment
Sat – Sun: Closed

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