How to clean teeth? When it comes to keeping teeth in top condition, sharks have it easy: A single bull shark can have as many as 50 rows of teeth, so when one falls out, another brand-new, healthy tooth is ready to shift into its place. People don’t have it so lucky – we only get one set of permanent teeth in a lifetime. And that means it’s especially important to clean them properly so they remain healthy and strong for as long as possible. Here’s what you need to do to ensure your teeth and gums stay in the best possible shape:

  • Use a toothpaste with fluoride and brush at least twice a day – in the morning and before bed – for about two minutes to remove food particles, sticky plaque and harmful bacteria.
  • Use a toothbrush with soft or medium bristles to help reach all the surfaces of your teeth and to avoid damaging gum tissue. Using a brush with a small head and angled bristles helps you reach teeth in the back part of your jaw and clean teeth easily.
  • Be sure to brush well along the gum line where plaque tends to collect.
  • If you’re wondering whether you should choose an electric toothbrush or a manual one, the answer is simple: Choose the one you’re most comfortable using. Both types can do clean teeth efficiently, so choose the option that you enjoy using the most. Electric brushes with oscillating or rotating heads can be especially effective at removing built-up plaque in hard-to-reach areas.
  • Using mouthwash is fine, but try not to use it right after brushing, since it may wash away some of the toothpaste’s beneficial fluoride. Avoid drinking for 20 to 30 minutes after brushing to give the rinse plenty of time to do its job of killing off harmful bacteria.
  • Flossing is one routine that many people don’t perform correctly. Use a piece of floss that’s about 12 to 18 inches long and slide the floss gently between teeth – avoid using a sawing motion which can wind up injuring gums. Once the floss is between two teeth, curve it around the tooth surfaces and move the floss up and down gently a few times to dislodge food particles and plaque. While most people floss after brushing, it’s often more effective to floss first since flossing can help dislodge food and plaque which can then be more easily brushed away.
  • Never use toothpicks to clean teeth. Toothpicks can damage gums and even push food particles and plaque below the gum line where they can do much more harm. Instead, remove food bits with dental floss or try using a brush to dislodge them.

Aside from brushing and flossing, having routine professional cleanings is one of the best ways to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy. In addition to cleaning teeth, the hygienist can also determine if you’re missing any areas when brushing and flossing, and also provide you with tips to improve your techniques. Twice-yearly professional cleanings are recommended. If you haven’t had a professional cleaning lately, call your dentist today to schedule a checkup as soon as possible.