Brushing

About Toothbrush
Tracing back the known history, it was in China that the first toothbrush ever was made around 1000 A.D. In its early form, the handle was made of ivory with bristles fashioned from horse’s mane. It was quite expensive back then. Today we enjoy the use of nylon brushes which come in more budget-friendly prices. Brushing plays a crucial role in removing the bacteria that causes both tooth decay and gum disease. Experts recommend that people brush their teeth at least twice daily in addition to flossing and having their teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year. Experts generally recommend that patients use a soft-bristled brush, because it is gentler on the gums. Using fluoride toothpaste or herbal toothpastes makes the structure of the teeth less vulnerable to decay and aids in remineralization, the process in which early tooth decay may be repaired.

Toothbrush Shapes
Since their advent toothbrushes have taken various forms and shapes and claims from manufacturers one being better than the other. However, it is not the point of argument here. As we see today, toothbrushes come in various designs such as angled heads, oscillating tufts, and those that change color after a certain period of using it. No scientific study says that any of these designs work better than the rest in cleaning the teeth and removing plaque. The sad truth is that some people just don’t brush their teeth in the most ideal way, often brushing for less than a minute. The optimal technique in brushing your teeth is two to three minutes, using a soft, nylon toothbrush with a long, wide handle and a head that’s about 1” by ½” so that areas off the mouth are easily accessed. The toothbrush bristles should be round-ended so that the gums wouldn’t be injured. Be sure to brush twice a day, after every meal. Visit your nearest family general dentist India dental clinic to learn more.

Brushing Technique

The commonly accepted norm is to brush your teeth while placing the brush at 45 degree angle and gently brushing outside the teeth, inside the tooth, your tongue, and especially brush on chewing surfaces and between teeth. When brushing, a pea-sized amount of toothpaste should be sufficient to clean the teeth. Place the brush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth. This helps the bristles to reach the space between the teeth and gums. Experts differ about the best motion to use when brushing. Regardless of which technique is used, it is important not to scrub too hard, because this can cause the gums to recede and expose the tender root surface. It is important to clean all areas of the teeth – including the top and bottom of both the outside and inside of the teeth, and the chewing surfaces on the back teeth, where food can easily become stuck in crevices. Brushing the tongue can help remove bacteria that causes bad breath (halitosis). If you are a denture wearer or have partial, fake dental crown, dental bridge or dental implants, seek specific instructions or recommendation from your dental specialist.

Healthy Oral Precautions
As we know there are millions of bacteria in our oral region. Proper cleaning, storage and replacement of toothbrush are essential acts to ensuring that brushing is effective. Once brushing is completed, thoroughly rinse the brush under tap water. Store the brush in an upright position and allow it to air dry. It is important to keep stored brushes separate so that the bristles are not touching. This helps prevent contamination from one brush to another. Whenever possible, it is best to avoid storing a brush in a closed container, which can promote the growth of microorganisms. There is no evidence that soaking a toothbrush in antibacterial solution or using a commercially available toothbrush sanitizer has any effect on oral health, though it may be a good idea.

When to Change Toothbrush

Maintenance of good oral hygiene is more important for every individual. The ideal way is that you should brush after every meal, because the bacterial attack on teeth begins minutes after eating. At the very least, brush once a day and always before you go to bed. Brushing your teeth isn't complicated, but there is a right and a wrong way. We do it every day without thinking too much, but there are some important points to remember when brushing your teeth. Considering the type of frequency of use, toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become worn. A toothbrush is worn when the bristles begin to spread and fan out toward either side of the brush. Worn toothbrushes do not clean as effectively as a newer brush. Children’s brushes often have to be replaced more frequently than adult brushes.

Brushing of Choice - Electronic Toothbrush
Use of electric toothbrush is now being adopted by good number of people. The method differs slightly from that of a manual brush and in doing so you will ensure optimum cleaning performance. When using an electric toothbrush read the operating instructions supplied before first use. If you have used other electric toothbrushes before, you should still check the manual because different brands/models may use different techniques. Electric toothbrushes usually do much of the brushing for you. All you have to do is move the brush around much less and let the motorized bristle head do the work as you gently move it around your mouth. Applied with the correct pressure you will allow yourself to achieve a focused deep cleaning action on all areas. When using an electric toothbrush for the first time, gum-bleeding should be expected. Bleeding will cease when you learn the proper control and your gums become healthier. Gently navigate the head on your teeth in a slow motion. Just let its bristles do the job. Too much pressure or brushing for too long can lead to various problems including damage to the gums, the onset of gingivitis, and damaged teeth enamel (dental erosion). Children under the age of ten should use electric toothbrushes under adult supervision.

Tooth brushing by Children

Often it is experienced that parents lack the necessary patience in teaching their children how to brush, while imbibing good oral habits in children is a strong and necessary desire that last a lifetime. The key to establishing good brushing habits is starting an oral care program early, cleaning your baby's mouth the first few days after birth. After each meal take a wet washcloth and wipe your baby's gums. This accomplishes three things: (1) It removes plaque that accumulates on the gums. Plaque is a sticky substance containing mucus, food debris, and bacteria. Removing plaque prevents bacteria from building up on your child's gums. (2) It gets your child accustomed to having a clean, plaque-free mouth. When your child is accustomed to a clean, plaque-free mouth, they will usually take steps, including brushing, to keep this clean feeling. (3) It gets your child accustomed to you "meddling" in their mouth. When your child becomes accustomed to you "meddling" in their mouth, it becomes easier for you to brush their teeth later. It also makes it easier for the dentist to examine and work in their mouths at a later date. By brushing your child's teeth, you remove the plaque bacteria which are responsible for this tooth decay, preventing the rising of need for sealants or dental fillings. The key to getting your child to brush is to make it an enthusiastic fun. Enamel saver toothpaste for kids and teens is what dentists in India often recommend.