How Often Should I Brush My Teeth?

Written by drdalesandro on August 10, 2020. Posted in Preventive.

Proper dental hygiene plays a critical role in sustaining an overall state of well-being. The question of “how often should I brush my teeth?” may seem simple; however, it’s a little more complicated than you might think. Your diet and daily habits will determine the frequency at which you should brush your teeth for starters.

High risk to dental issues

An example would be those who smoke cigarettes need to brush their teeth more than someone who is smoke-free. This is a true statement as cigarette smoke covers your teeth in harmful substances like tar.
Aside from the frequency at which you brush your teeth, you also need to use the correct brushing method. Applying too much force when brushing your teeth can damage them further. Light and gentle strokes are the best way to clean any food particles or substance build-ups on your teeth.

How often should I brush my teeth?

As per the American Dental Association, you should brush at least twice a day. The timing at which you decide to brush isn’t necessary; however, if you want to brush your teeth after eating, you should wait at least 30 minutes. The recommendation is that you brush before each meal and before bed.

Brushing alone isn’t going to solve your dental hygiene problems. A proper dental hygiene routine consists of first brushing, then flossing, and finally rinsing your mouth out with an antiseptic. Regardless of when you brush your teeth, remember the 30-minute rule.

How long to wait after brushing your teeth

If you brush before you eat, wait 30 minutes until you eat, if you brush after, wait 30 mins before consuming any liquids or solids. In case you’re wondering, alcohol-free mouthwash is best, you should also try to use fluoride toothpaste as much as possible.

To achieve maximum dental health, try to get a professional cleaning at least twice a year. Professional dental cleanings act as a preventative against tooth decay and deterioration.

Making sure your teeth stay white for a long time

Forgetting to brush every once in a while is normal; however, once it becomes a habit, you need to implement strategies to ensure you stay on track. Try to set a timer on your phone to be reminded of when to brush your teeth without having to think about it.

To answer the question is, twice a day minimal. If you can manage to brush your teeth at least three times a day, that’s even better.

Understanding how often should I brush my teeth

Use this article to help stay on top of your oral health to avoid issues like cavity formation, root decay, staining, and more. Brushing your teeth is one of the simplest ways to maintain a healthy mouth and good health in general, don’t take it for granted. Contact Dr. Dalesandro for dental services in Tucson, Arizona.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a root canal hurt?
What does an abscessed tooth feel like?
What would be considered a dental emergency?
Why are my teeth so bad even though I brush?
How long do dental implants take to heal?
Can gum disease cause cancer?
How much do braces cost?
How Long Can a Cavity Wait to Get Filled?

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

Written by drdalesandro on August 10, 2020. Posted in Restorative, Dental Services, Teeth & Gums Problems.

Root canals are commonly performed on individuals suffering from severe teeth rot due to cavities or other conditions. By the time you get to the root canal phase, it’s not an optional procedure; it’s mandatory. Root canals are also required when your teeth become infected to where natural tooth decay will occur.

How root canal pain is dealt with

If you’re suffering from any of these conditions and have been told by your dentist that you need a root canal, don’t worry. Root canals have a bad reputation for being very painful; however, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

All root canal procedures are carried out under local anesthetic medication, which numbs your tooth nerves. Many doctors will also apply a numbing gel around your gums so that you can’t even feel the slightest prick during the procedure.

Modern technology has made root canal procedures virtually painless for most people. The stressed individuals about getting a root canal tend to be surprised at how fast the entire process happens.

Does a root canal hurt?

As we stated before, before the procedure beginning, your dentist will apply an anesthetic medication to your mouth. After your mouth has been completely numbed, they will begin by removing the affected tooth or teeth. This is part in which the likelihood of you experiencing pain is the highest.

However, since your mouth is numbed, you likely won’t experience any pain unless your tooth’s condition is dire. Once the affected tooth or teeth have been successfully removed, your dentist will begin capping your teeth using a mold from the one that was just removed.

All of this takes about 30min to an hour max, so you will be in and out of your dentist’s office before realizing it.

Easing the pain of a root canal

After your root canal procedure, you may experience slightly increased sensitivity around the areas most affected. This minute sensation tends only to last a few days. If you experience pain that persists longer than three days, contact your dentist.

Slight inflammation is also another common side effect of root canal procedures. But if your root canal was performed by a professional, swelling should reside within a few days. Pain medications are rarely needed after a root canal procedure unless the situation is severe.

Avoid eating hard or rough textured foods after having your root canal performed, as this could tamper with your results.

Understanding the answer to “Does a root canal hurt?”

After reading this article, your fears of getting a root canal procedure done should be eased. There is no reason to worry about any intense pain associated with the process as long as you go to a reputable dentist. Contact Dr. Dalesandro for your dental needs in Tucson today.