
06/06/2014
2-Minute Rule? How Long You Should *Really* Brush Your Teeth For
You may have learned growing up that you should brush your teeth for at least two minutes. But if you’ve been using that as your only benchmark for brushing, it may be time to adjust your habits.
The truth is, your teeth need to be brushed for as long as it takes to get them clean. If that’s two minutes, great! If it’s five, great! If it’s 30 seconds… (etc.).
It’s also imperative that you brush your teeth the right way, using the right tools. If your technique is bad, it won’t matter how long you spend brushing.
Two minutes is actually a good rough number to shoot for, but make sure you’re doing the following things as well:
• Use toothpaste with the ADA seal, and preferably one with added fluoride.
• Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line and sweep down for the top teeth and up for the bottom teeth. Even better get a power toothbrush and it does the work for you!
• Brush every part of your mouth. This includes the insides and outsides of your top and bottom teeth, and your tongue.
Your dentist and hygienist can help you with more recommendations to fit your specific needs. Ask about your brushing technique at your next appointment.