ARE YOU BRUSHING TOO HARD?

What is the Proper brushing technique you should be using? The most important thing to remember when brushing your teeth is not how hard you scrub, but that you use the proper technique and that you do a thorough job. And that takes time. Dentists recommend that you brush your teeth for two to three minutes to get the most thorough cleaning. The following are some other tips for brushing your teeth correctly: •Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent gum damage and wear on the soft tooth dentin (the less mineralized layer of tooth found just under the enamel) and in the root area. If you are accustomed to a hard-bristled toothbrush, even using a toothbrush that is softer than you are accustomed to will help. •Place the head of your toothbrush with the tips of the bristles at a 45-degree-angle to the gumline when brushing. •Move the toothbrush with short strokes and a scrubbing motion, several times in each spot – don’t saw back and forth across the teeth with your toothbrush. •Apply just enough pressure to feel the bristles against the gums. If you are squashing the bristles, you're brushing too hard.