Knowing how to brush your teeth properly is an important skill that should be learned at an early age.  Unfortunately, many children and adults are not brushing properly.

Here are some tips for proper brushing:

-Parents should help children brush.  This is especially important with young children.

-Brush for 2MINUTES, 2 TIMES A DAY!  Many electric toothbrushes have timers on them to help assure people are brushing long enough.

-Brush in the morning and before bed.  If possible, brush after meals, too.

-Brush using a circular motion at a 45 degree angle to the tooth, with gentle pressure.  Brush outside, inside of tops of teeth.  Don’t forget to brush the tongue and FLOSS!

-Avoid using a “scrubbing” motion with excessive force as this can cause gum recession.

Your dentist and dental hygienist can help with brushing tips if they see concerns at recall visits.  If you’re overdue for a cleaning or checkup, contact Douglas Dental for an appointment today.  We are conveniently located with easy access for Urbandale, Johnston and all of the greater Des Moines area.