Taking care of your teeth daily is a fundamental task we all do. Everyday routines are something we’re taught from the time we’re little, and they’re expected to stick with us for the rest of our lives. However, have you ever wondered if you’re brushing your teeth long enough? Or are you just going through the motions?

Dental professionals recommend brushing our teeth for two minutes twice a day. However, a recent study found that average people brush their teeth for only 45 seconds. That’s less than half the recommended time! This raises the question, are we doing enough to keep our teeth and gums healthy?

The truth is, brushing for less than two minutes is not enough to remove all the plaque and food particles that build up on our teeth and gums. If left untreated, these particles can lead to gum disease, cavities, and even tooth loss. Therefore, brushing for two minutes ensures our teeth are clean and healthy.

To ensure you’re brushing long enough, set a two-minute timer, or try using an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer. Electric toothbrushes have a two-minute timer, so you don’t have to worry about timing yourself. Additionally, electric toothbrushes are more effective in removing plaque than manual toothbrushes.

But brushing for two minutes is not the only thing you must do to maintain good oral hygiene. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is easy if you follow these tips:

1. Brush at least twice a day – Brushing twice daily is the minimum frequency dental professionals recommend. Brushing after meals is also beneficial, especially if you’ve eaten sugary or acidic foods.
2. Use fluoride toothpaste – Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Most toothpaste contains fluoride, so be sure to use fluoride toothpaste.
3. Floss daily – By flossing daily, food particles and plaque are removed from between your teeth, which a toothbrush can’t reach. Cavities and gum disease can be prevented by flossing.
4. Use mouthwash – It helps kill bacteria, freshen your breath, and reduce plaque buildup in your mouth. You can protect your teeth against decay by using a fluoride mouthwash.
5. Visit your dentist regularly – Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health. Early detection and treatment of problems by your dentist can prevent serious problems from developing.

Furthermore, you should practice good brushing techniques in addition to these tips. Here’s how:

1. Make sure you hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle – This allows the bristles to reach under the gum line, where bacteria can hide.
2. Brush in a circular motion – Circular brushing helps remove plaque and food particles from all surfaces of the teeth.
3. Use gentle pressure – Brushing too hard can damage tooth enamel and irritate gums. Use a light touch when brushing.
4. Don’t forget to brush your tongue – The tongue can become infected with bacteria, causing bad breath. Brushing your tongue can help freshen your breath and remove bacteria.
5. Replace your toothbrush regularly –  Over time, toothbrushes lose their effectiveness at removing plaque. If your toothbrush’s bristles become frayed, replace them every three to four months.

In conclusion, brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. This isn’t the only thing you should do, however. Flossing, using mouthwash, visiting your dentist regularly, and practicing good brushing techniques are also crucial for keeping your mouth and gums healthy.

 So next time when you brush your teeth, remember to take your time and brush for the full two minutes. Your teeth will thank you!