Teeth brushing

Toothbrushing is seen by many people as a daily routine or ceremony. They forget the real essence of brushing. Another category of people do not even see the need brushing their teeth regularly. As a result, they develop diverse complications such as halitosis (mouth odour), plaque (a film of bacteria that coats the teeth) see pic below


Also gingivitis ( swollen gums) and dental caries (tooth decay).
The most common of them is plaque and personnally I dislike it.
This complications are preventable when one adheres to the basic principles of teeth brushing
THE BRUSH
It is important to ensure you are using the right tooth brush, access the size of your mouth... Yea! It does matter, the size of your mouth determines the size of your toothbrush. Do not use small brushes for children as an adult.
Next is the bristles, they should have the appropriate shape and be SOFT enough. Soft bristles are very efficient in preventing the development of plaque.
Again, most people leave their brushes moist after brushing. It is a good idea to shake out the moisture and then recap it with a cap that allows air in. A toothbrush that is perpetually moist will cultivate bacteria.
Lastly, do noy use a toothbrush for too long. At most 3 months, if the bristles are worn out or scattered before the third month, please discard!

THE TOOTHPASTE
Use an appropriate toothpaste that contains fluoride in appropriate amount. Fluoride is essential in preventing tooth decay. It also modulates the way thw tooth absorbs and loose minerals.

THE BRUSHING
The average duration for tooth brushing should be at least 2 mins.
It should be done at least 2 times a day.experts have recommended AT MOST twice a day because excessive brushing can expose the root of the tooth to irritation and that can in turn irtitate the gums.
Also, avoid vigorous brushing because it can erode the tooth enamel( the white covering on the exposed part of the tooth)

To properly brush,use gentle stroke s concentrating on thoroughly cleaning each session as follows;
- clean the outer surface of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth.
- clean the inner surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth.
- clean the inner surfaces.
- for fresh breath, be sure you brush your tongue.
*please while brushing the teeth, it is adviceable to use vertical strokes. This method is very efficient in removing food debris thereby preveting plaque formation.