There are plenty of classic songs to sing in your head when it’s brushing time to make sure you brush your teeth for long enough. Or maybe you’d rather wing it and take a guess at how long you have been brushing for. Either way, there is a good chance that you don’t brush your teeth for long enough these days! To ensure your kid’s dental health isn’t being put on the back burner, here a few tips to consider:
The Recommended Time
Two minutes twice a day is the most highly recommended time frame for brushing your teeth. For many who usually only brush for 45 seconds, this could feel like a long time. However, two minutes is the perfect time to make sure you are getting enough plaque and grime off your teeth from the day or night before. Don’t rush this!
Brushing for Too Long
Did you know that there is a brushing time that is seen as too long? Brushing for four minutes or longer can lead to the breakdown of your gums and the protective layers of your teeth. You could do more damage than good if you clean your teeth for longer periods of time throughout the day. The two-minute mark is just right!
Getting Into a Routine
Some people remember to brush twice a day, others not so much. Whether you skip out on the morning cleanings or night ones, you’re still not giving your teeth the right amount of brushing time that they need. A great way to ensure your kids don’t skip a step and an extra way to remind yourself is with a handy dandy and downloadable brushing chart. This way, you can keep track of your whole family’s habits.