Abbott Family Dentistry, LLC

It is recommended that you brush your teeth 2 or 3 times a day for 2 to 3 minutes. Studies have shown that brushing for 3 minutes is better than two minutes. Brushing, even when done correctly, can be traumatic to the teeth and gums over time (not brushing is even worse for the teeth and gums). For this reason, it is advised that brushing should not be done for more that 3 times a day. Once a day is better than nothing but studies have shown that there is a definite benefit if you brush twice a day. When selecting a tooth brush, get a soft or extra soft brush. Medium and hard bristle tooth brushes are damaging to the teeth and gums even when you brush correctly so do not use medium or hard bristle brushes! 

Tooth brushes should also be replaced every 3 months, not 6 when you get your cleaning! That is why we give our patients 2 tooth brushes with every cleaning.