Tooth brushing Mistake No.1: “Not Using the Right Toothbrush”
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Not Using the Right Toothbrush
Brushing your teeth is a simple and straight forward process, right? Not so. There are dozens of mistakes that can lead to a bad tooth brushing job. This means you’re running the risk of more cavities and plaque. The biggest mistake? Not using the right toothbrush. But what makes a toothbrush wrong?
Hard Bristles
Bleeding gums? If you’re picking up the floss for the first time in a month because of a pending orthodontist appointment, that’s no surprise. However, if you brush every morning and every night and your gums are still bleeding, you’re using the wrong toothbrush.
Select soft bristles
Maybe it seems like hard bristles would give you a better clean, but they’re actually harder on your tooth enamel, your gums and the roots of your teeth. Softer bristles remove plaque and debris without the pain. Hard bristles could make your teeth more sensitive – definitely something to avoid. They can also be hard on an Invisalign, which could lead to an extra visit to the orthodontist. Make sure the bristles are angled, too. They’ll conform to the teeth better and are more likely to clean every surface. They’ll even clean around braces easier.
It’s Too Big
Your toothbrush should be small and fit comfortably in your mouth. Rule of thumb? If it can brush two teeth at a time, you have the correct size.
It’s Old
Are the bristles of your toothbrush frayed or worn? Have the blue markings faded? Were you sick? It’s time to toss that baby out. Replace your toothbrush every three months. An old toothbrush isn’t giving your teeth the clean they need, particularly if you have braces. The right toothbrush doesn’t mean electric. You can brush your teeth and Invisalign well even with a $2 plastic toothbrush. So go out and find the right toothbrush today. Your mouth will thank you.
Contact McDermott Orthodontics to Learn More About Treatment for Adults
In Minnesota, you can visit McDermott Orthodontics to learn more about the orthodontic treatments that are designed for adults. Dr. Michael McDermott offers services to patients living in these areas:
• Delano – 763-972-4444
• Pequot Lake – 218-568-5600
• Brainerd – 218-829-1630
• Baxter – 218-829-1630
At McDermott Orthodontics, our patients can receive treatment with these orthodontic devices:
• Damon system – self-ligating devices
• Clear devices – made with clear brackets
• Invisalign aligners – suitable for adults
• Ceramic devices – made with color-matching brackets
With our top-of-the-line diagnostic equipment, we can determine how to improve the positions of your teeth with a few months or several years of orthodontic treatment. To learn more about orthodontic braces, schedule an appointment today.
Tooth brushing Mistake No.1: “Not Using the Right Toothbrush”
McDermott Orthodontist
708 Elm Ave. E.
Delano, MN
55328
TEL: 763-972-4444
Dr. Michael McDermott earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in both Chemistry and Biology from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. He followed his undergraduate degrees with a doctorate in dental surgery at the University of Minnesota, where he graduated with highest distinction.
Dr. Mike then furthered his dental education by earning a masters and certificate in Orthodontics at the University of St. Louis in Missouri.
