You know that brushing teeth is key to maintaining your oral health. But how often should you be brushing? And why so often and long? Here, our Smile Town Langley dentists explain some of the whys and hows of brushing.
The CDA (Canadian Dental Association) recommends that you and your child brush your teeth a minimum of one or two times per day (and always before bed) for at least two minutes each time.
But why is this recommended? And how do you fit that time into your busy schedule? Especially if your child doesn't enjoy their oral hygiene routine.
Why do I have to brush that often and for that long?
Brushing removes plaque and food from your teeth, preserving your and your child's enamel from acid-producing bacteria.
It is better to brush your teeth for as long and as often as possible. Brushing your teeth after every meal is even recommended by the CDA!
Even though not everyone has the ability to brush that frequently, once or twice a day and before bed is a good place to start.
Why Before Bed?
Our mouth's natural way of washing out plaque and food is saliva. But, our body doesn't generate as much saliva while we sleep.
So, if you clean your teeth before bed, there are less harmful food bits and bacteria in your mouth to damage your enamel overnight.
Bedtime is also a good time to build brushing into you and your child's daily routine. You can use it to get some together-time at the end your busy day.
How Do I Brush Often and For Long Enough?
It can be difficult to find motivation for you and your child to brush your teeth. Your child may be resistant to brushing and flossing their teeth or you may have had a long day and the extra bedtime step is just too much.
There are a few ways you can help you and your child find the time to brush every day (and make sure it's enough time too):
Brush as a Family
You and your child can keep each other accountable if you make a habit of brushing together. It can also become an opportunity to spend some time with one another amidst your busy days.
Brush During Commercial Breaks
If your day starts or ends with watching a show as a family, you can time your brush with a commercial break. This can also add excitement and playfulness to your hygiene routine with a race to and from the bathroom to make it in time.
Play A Song
If you consider brushing as the length of your child's favourite 2-3 minute song, it may be easier (and more fun for them) to fit it into your routine. There's even the added benefit of a soundtrack to your oral hygiene!