Life can be busy, and more often than not, we might be rushing through our daily activities. When it comes to oral hygiene, however, it is important to devote adequate time and focus, especially while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Since braces can easily trap food particles, careful and correct brushing is imperative to avoid dental problems down the road.
Am I Brushing Long Enough?
Probably not. If you and your kids are rushing to get out the door in the morning, there’s a good chance you are skimping on tooth brushing time. A minimum of two minutes should be spent every time you brush. Get in the habit of setting a timer. You may find that two minutes feels like forever, but it’s important to devote enough time to ensure a proper cleaning. To make things more fun, find a toothbrush timer app for your cell phone. If you don’t want to bother with timers or phones, try singing the ABC song in your head, slowly, four times. This should get you to the two-minute mark and it’s as easy as ABC!
Am I Brushing Often Enough?
Braces, wires and bands are really good at trapping food particles; therefore, it is important for orthodontic patients to brush frequently. Thorough brushing is recommended after every meal and snack. Four times per day should be the minimum:
• After breakfast
• After lunch
• After dinner
• Before bed
Keeping a travel toothbrush and toothpaste in a handbag, backpack or locker will come in handy for kids who are on-the-go or at school. If unable to brush after a meal, rinsing thoroughly with water can help until you are able to brush properly.
Help Others Smile
Dr. Samuel G. Papandreas is an excellent orthodontist in North Royalton and Brunswick, who provides a variety of specialized orthodontic treatments such as:
• Surgical orthodontics
• Dentofacial orthodontics
• Two-phase treatment
• Palatal expanders
• Invisalign
• Braces
You can visit Papandreas Orthodontics to learn about the best type of orthodontic treatment for you and your children to improve your smile correct your dental bite.
Papandreas Orthodontics
3511 Center Road, Suite B
Brunswick, OH 44212
tel: 330-558-9092
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14200 Ridge Rd
North Royalton, OH 44133
tel: 440-582-8585
https://drpapandreas.com/
Toothbrushing Mistake No.3: “Not Brushing Often Enough or Long Enough”