You Are Probably Brushing Your Teeth Wrong

Since we were too little to reach the bathroom sink, we’ve been told to brush our teeth every morning and before bedtime. We know it’s essential for a bright smile, but it turns out, taking care of your teeth and gums may help you live longer and lower the risk of all kinds of health conditions, too. Last week at the annual American Association for the Advancement of Science conference, experts from medical schools across the country stressed how important good oral hygiene is to our overall health.

“We now think that maintaining your teeth in health may be associated with a reduced risk of more than 50 systemic conditions,” Professor Alpdogan Kantarci from the University of Minnesota explained. “Research is now showing that, in people with mild or moderate diseases, those who are brushing and taking care of their teeth, or seeing a dentist and having advanced cleanings, are showing much better cognitive responses.”

The experts shared that gum disease can allow bacteria to reach the bloodstream, negatively affecting blood vessels and the heart. Chronic oral inflammation can even contribute to cognitive decline and poor oral health can impact health conditions involving the gut, the brain and more. But healthy teeth and gums reduce harmful bacteria and inflammation in the body and lower the risk of these systemic health issues. The thing is, a lot of us are making brushing mistakes that are working against us.

• Brushing too hard or too quickly - Instead of scrubbing the teeth and gums, focus on trying to massage them. Brushing too aggressively can lead to gum recession and enamel wear.
• Don’t ignore the gumline - That’s where plaque tends to accumulate.
• Clean between your teeth - Flossing helps to get the plaque in between.
• Avoid rinsing with water right after brushing - This washes away the fluoride in the toothpaste before it has time to strengthen teeth.
• Brush three times a day - Adding an extra brushing, especially after eating sticky or sugary foods, can help as long as you’re gentle.
• Get regular dental check-ups - The dentist can find and deal with small problems early so they don’t contribute to health issues.

Source: The Independent