Play Full VideoBrushing your teeth is vital to good mouth health. But there is another way to clean your mouth that, in addition to brushing, can be very helpful: chewing sugar free gum. Let’s make sure your brushing technique is on point, then we can talk about how chewing gum can help.
To brush your teeth properly, you need a good toothbrush. Make sure you get one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance on the packaging; this will guarantee a good product. It will have soft bristles, which is necessary to prevent damage to your teeth and gums. Replace your brush every 3-4 months.
When using your brush, make sure to use short, tooth-wide strokes and gentle pressure. Brush your teeth 2 times a day, for 2 minutes each time. This will get all of your teeth clean. Be sure to brush the inner surfaces, the outer surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of each tooth.
After eating your teeth are more sensitive to abrasion–especially after eating or drinking acidic foods. As both toothpaste and the act of brushing itself are mildly abrasive to teeth, it is best to wait a short while before brushing them. However, it is also best to clear the food particles, debris, and acids away from the teeth as soon as possible. This is where gum comes in. Chew a piece of sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating. The gum stimulates saliva flow, which in turn cleans and protects your teeth by delivering fortifying substances and neutralizing acids. This is a great way to clean your mouth after eating–though it does not replace your twice-daily brushing.
For more information, call Char Dental in Honolulu, Hawaii at 808-450-2155. Dr. Edmund L. W. Char and our team are happy to hear from you!