Nearly a quarter of adults in the UK don’t brush their teeth twice daily. Regular brushing stops the bacterial build-up of plaque
(a sticky substance made up or glycoproteins and bacteria). Studies have shown that even missing one brushing session can start the process of decay and gum disease.
Choosing the right toothbrush is just as important as your brushing technique. The best technique is known as the modified Bass technique – your hygienist or dentist can show you this. When brushing you need to ensure that every tooth is cleaned and that we clean the total surface area of the tooth. When plaque is left (easy to do f you’re in a hurry)but can slowly build up – becoming calico foes and hard to the tooth, this is known as calculus or tartar.
Small headed toothbrushes are regarded as the best to use, as they allow you to reach most areas of your mouth. In addition softer bristles ensure that you are less likely to damage your tooth and gums.
Once the bristles start to lose their strength/fray and you have a spread it is already past time to replace your brush. However, we recommend replacing your brush at least every 3 months – regardless of its condition as it ensures that you aren’t building up bacteria on the brush.
Lastly, research has shown that electric toothbrushes ( the rechargeable kind NOT battery operated) are the best to use. Some examples are Ora B Braun and Phillips sonicare.
Interdental cleaning
No matter how good your brushing is, it’ll never get rid of all the plaque on your teeth. During brushing we only remove around 60% of plaque and bacteria. This means a staggering 40% is still lodged between your teeth! The bacteria most associated with gum disease and decay are more likely to be found in between your teeth, this is because they are anaerobic bacteria (hates oxygen) and less oxygen is found between the teeth. Therefore it is imperative that DAILY interdental cleaning is performed, the best time being before you brush at night, so you can go to bed with a lovely clean mouth.
Thorough daily interdental cleaning can stop you getting decay and periodontitis (gum disease). Every mouth is different so not every mouth can use the same product, your hygienist or dentist will inform you of the best thing for you to use.
