It seems like brushing your teeth is a no-brainer, right? It seems that brushing should just come natural, but there is brushing…and then there is brushing. If you brush your teeth fast and haphazardly you can miss areas of plaque. If you brush your teeth with the wrong kind of toothbrush you can damage your enamel. It is always good to brush up on your tooth brushing technique from time to time. Take the quiz below to see how much you know about the proper way to brush your teeth.
True or False Questions
- True or False: You should brush your teeth with a hard-bristled tooth brush. The harder the better.
- True or False: If you are using a soft-bristled tooth brush, you should brush vehemently.
- True or False: Any toothpaste that contains fluoride is okay to use.
- True or False: You should never hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle. Always hold it straight on.
- True or False: You only need to brush once a day.
Answers:
- False: The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends using a soft-bristled tooth brush. Soft bristles are less likely to damage your tooth enamel but are adequate enough to clean the plaque off your teeth.
- False: Brushing too hard and vigorous–or even too many times a day (four or more)–even when using a soft-bristled brush can damage your tooth enamel.
- True: Unless your dentist recommends special toothpaste for your individual needs, using any toothpaste that contains fluoride is acceptable.
- False: It is recommended that you hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and gently press against the gums so you are cleaning and massaging your gums, and removing the plaque that forms around your gums as well as on your teeth.
- False: The ADA recommends brushing at least twice daily (after breakfast and before bed) and flossing once a day. However, brushing after every meal is even better.
ABOUT YOUR GRAND PRAIRIE, TX DENTIST:
Dr. Quinn Smith is a well-respected and highly experienced general, restorative, and family dentist in Grand Prairie, TX. He takes a patient-first approach that starts from the moment patients enter our Pecan Tree Dental office, and he offers a three-year guarantee on all dental work that he performs. Whether you and your family are new or returning patients, you can schedule a consultation or your next appointment with Dr. Smith by contacting us at (972) 262-5111.
