Brushing your teeth removes plaque, a sticky film, from the inside, outside and top of your teeth. Use a soft toothbrush and place toothpaste the size of a pea on it. Move your toothbrush in a circle around each of your teeth for a total of two minutes. Brushing in a circle will not damage your gums; however brushing back and forth may. Make brushing fun by singing “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” about ten times or use an egg timer set for two minutes. Remember to never swallow toothpaste because too much fluoride is not good for you.
Make a habit to brush your teeth each night at the same time. After you have brushed your teeth, don’t eat or drink anything before you go to bed. You want to have your teeth nice and clean when you go to bed so the bacteria in your mouth have no food to eat while you are sleeping.
If your toothbrush has bristles that are bent or frayed, get a new toothbrush because worn bristles can damage your gums. Most toothbrushes should be replaced at least every two months. Remember to not share your toothbrush with anyone else or use someone else’s toothbrush.
Photo & content from American Dental Association brochure “Your Child’s Teeth”
Hi Dr. Droege & Staff!
ReplyDeleteWe are in Ms. Holtgrave's 3rd grade class in Beckemeyer. Although we will miss your visit this year, we are extremely exicted about the online Dental Challenge. You'll be hearing more from us later!