How long should you brush your teeth to prevent cavities

How long should you brush your teeth to avoid cavities?

Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes to effectively prevent cavities. This approach helps remove plaque and bacteria that accumulate on the teeth and gums throughout the day, which are the main causes of cavities and other oral diseases.

Why exactly two minutes?

Research shows that two minutes is the minimum time required for thorough cleaning of the tooth surface from food remnants and plaque. Brushing for less time leaves a significant amount of bacterial plaque on the teeth, increasing the risk of cavities, gum inflammation, and other dental problems.

Tips for effective tooth brushing

Keep track of time: Use a timer or a toothbrush with a built-in timer to ensure you're brushing for the full two minutes.

Use the correct technique: Move the brush in small circular motions to clean all tooth surfaces. Pay special attention to areas near the gum line, where bacteria tend to accumulate most often.

Change your brush every three months: Old bristles can lose their effectiveness and won't clean your teeth as well.

Don't forget about soft tissues: Clean not only your teeth but also your tongue and gums to remove additional bacteria.

It's also important to use dental floss and mouthwash for complete cleaning. By following these simple daily recommendations, you can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and keep your teeth healthy for many years.

We also discussed which side of your jaw you should never chew on.

The article uses sources from Daily Express, Women's Health, and Shape.

This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.