Staying inside means you help slow the spread of COVID-19 and safeguard the health of your community. But since you can’t attend routine preventive treatments, like checkups and cleanings, you need to continue to care for your smile from home. In today’s blog, your El Paso, TX, dentists are talking about proper brushing!
Manual or Electric?
The age-old question! Well, the best one is the one you feel most comfortable using. For some, manual toothbrushes are easier to handle and use. For others, the electric helps clean surfaces of your teeth better and can make sure you do so for the amount of time recommended. As long as you use it properly, twice a day as the dentist recommends, then either one is an excellent option for cleaning your teeth and protecting your oral health from issues like tooth decay or dental infection. We do suggest making sure they have soft bristles, as brushing too rough with hard or medium bristles could inadvertently wear down the outer layer of tooth enamel.
What About My Toothpaste?
When you head to the store, you’ll see a number of different options available. Some promise brighter teeth, others stronger smiles. But what do you look for? When choosing one, we suggest making sure the packaging contains the American Dental Association’s (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, as well as fluoride. A natural occurring mineral, fluoride helps strengthen your outer layer of tooth enamel to protect your smile. We do urge caution in regards to whitening toothpastes, as many contain abrasive agents that help remove stains, but could also weaken enamel if you brush too hard.
Proper Brushing Habits
Approach the teeth at a 45-degree angle to clean the tops and sides of your teeth. Then clean the front facing sides in circular motions. Make sure you reach every available surface, brush for at least two minutes each session, once when you wake and again before bed. For babies, use a bit of cloth or a small toothbrush that fits over your finger. For toddlers, upgrade to an age-appropriate one, and be sure they used a rice-sized blot of fluoride tooth paste. If you have any questions about proper brushing, or about other steps you can take to protect your smile from home, then contact our team today. Remember, we’re still here for emergency treatments as needed!
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO, TX ABOUT KEEPING SMILES CLEAN
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, we want to make sure you and your family have all the information you need to keep your smiles healthy. To learn more about our approach to emergency dental care. then contact your El Paso, TX, dentists at Sunny Smiles on Dyer Street by calling 915-859-7000.