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Estero Bay Dental shares the brushing basics for patients in Estero and Bonita Springs, and Dr. Ivan Vigoa and our team can review your technique with you at your next exam and cleaning.
Brushing your teeth is probably a standard part of your daily routine, but you may not be following the American Dental Association’s guidelines for cleaning your teeth properly. A few small adjustments to your technique can make your brushing more effective.
At Estero Bay Dental, Dr. Ivan Vigoa and our Estero, FL team are happy to review how you brush and show you ways to protect your teeth and gums between visits.
The ADA recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice each day, preferably in the morning and at night, or any time you eat foods that contain sugar. Brushing for two minutes each time gives you the chance to reach every surface of every tooth. The American Dental Association’s MouthHealthy site offers additional brushing guidance if you would like to read more.
The type of toothbrush you use makes a difference in your oral health. The ADA recommends a soft-bristled brush with a head that fits comfortably inside your mouth. Many patients believe that medium or hard bristles clean better, but these brushes can cause abrasions to the teeth and gums and make them more vulnerable to decay. If you are deciding between types, read our guide to electric versus manual toothbrushes.
| Toothbrush Feature | What We Suggest |
|---|---|
| Bristles | Soft bristles protect your teeth and gums from abrasion. |
| Head Size | Choose a head that fits your mouth and reaches your back teeth. |
| Handle | Pick a grip that feels comfortable and easy to control. |
| Replacement | Replace about four times a year, or sooner when bristles look frayed. |
| Toothpaste | Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride each day. |
Brushing too hard or not brushing enough can both cause problems. Over time, these habits can lead to oral health complications that are hard to reverse and may require treatment. The table below covers a few habits worth checking.
| Mistake | Why It Matters | What to Do Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing Too Hard | Heavy pressure can irritate gums and wear on teeth. | Use gentle, short strokes with a soft brush. |
| Brushing Too Quickly | Rushing can leave plaque behind. | Take two minutes and cover every surface. |
| Skipping the Gum Line | Plaque collects where teeth meet gums. | Angle the brush toward the gum line. |
| Using a Worn Brush | Frayed bristles do not clean as well. | Replace it when the bristles fray. |
| Forgetting the Tongue | Bacteria on the tongue can cause bad breath. | Gently brush your tongue each time. |
You may need to adjust your routine if you notice signs such as bleeding or reddened gums, excessive plaque buildup, decay, or receding gums. If you are not sure whether you are brushing correctly, make an appointment for an exam and cleaning so our team can take a look. We can also talk with you about gum disease if we see changes. Brushing works best alongside daily flossing.
We accept many PPO plans, and our team will review your benefits with you, so please see our insurance page. Patients without insurance can ask about our Smile Program, a discount program. We accept CareCredit and work with several financing partners, including Cherry Financing, to provide flexible options for paying the cost of treatment over time.
Our Estero office on South Tamiami Trail welcomes patients from Estero, Bonita Springs, and nearby neighborhoods such as Pelican Landing, Pelican Sound, and Coconut Point. We offer family dentistry for ages 7 and up. We are open Monday through Thursday from 8 am to 5 pm and Friday from 8 am to 1 pm, and our team speaks both English and Spanish.
Here are answers to questions we hear often about brushing.
The American Dental Association recommends brushing at least twice a day, preferably morning and night, or any time you eat foods that contain sugar. Our Estero, FL team can help you build a routine that works for you.
Tilt your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to your gum line. This helps you clean along the gum line, where plaque tends to collect.
You may need to if you notice bleeding or reddened gums, excessive plaque buildup, decay, or receding gums. To find out whether you are brushing correctly, make an appointment at Estero Bay Dental for an exam.
The American Dental Association recommends a soft-bristled toothbrush with a head that fits comfortably in your mouth. Medium and hard bristles can cause abrasions to the teeth and gums.
Replace your toothbrush about four times a year, or sooner if the bristles become frayed. A worn brush does not clean as well.
The benefits of proper technique may not be noticeable right away, but they build over time. Good habits help protect your teeth and gums, and regular visits let us track your progress.
Yes. Floss daily, use a toothpaste that contains fluoride each day, and schedule dental exams and professional cleanings at least twice a year. Our Estero office is glad to review your whole routine.
Yes. We accept CareCredit and work with several financing partners, including Cherry Financing, to provide flexible options for paying the cost of treatment over time. We also accept many PPO plans and can review your benefits with you.
If you would like help with your brushing technique, or it has been a while since your last cleaning, our Estero, FL team is ready to help. We proudly serve patients throughout Estero, Bonita Springs, and the surrounding Southwest Florida communities. We invite you to contact our office or request an appointment today.
