Proper dental hygiene starts at home. Brushing your teeth is one of the best things you can do for your overall oral health. However, there are more and less effective ways to brush your teeth. Here are four ways to make tooth brushing work for you:

1. Brush at least twice a day.

Plaque is a sticky substance that accumulates on the surface of your teeth over the course of the day. It's made from bacteria and saliva, and the sugars in the foods you eat can encourage the growth of plaque. In order to keep your teeth plaque-free, you should brush them at least twice a day. Make it a habit to brush your teeth when you wake up in the morning and before you go to bed at night.

2. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Toothbrushes come in varying textures. The bristles range from soft to firm. Some people are in the habit of using toothbrushes with firm bristles because they feel it gives them a better clean. However, firm bristles can erode your teeth's natural enamel. It can also damage your gums. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent injury. They clean away plaque just as well as other toothbrushes.

3. Brush for at least sixty seconds.

If you rush through brushing your teeth, you may not be reaping the full benefits. Plaque can hide in every crevice of your mouth, so it's important that you do a thorough job of cleaning your teeth. Set a timer for sixty seconds each time you brush, since that is the length of time experts recommend. Brushing your teeth for a full minute will ensure you clean them well enough. It can be helpful to start from the back of your teeth and work your way to the front. Make sure to clean each surface of your teeth: the outside, inside, and chewing surface. The back of your molars should be gently cleaned as well.

4. Get your teeth cleaned by your dentist.

While you should absolutely take care of your own oral hygiene, you can't overlook the importance of dental services. Have your teeth cleaned by your family dentist at least twice a year. Your dentist will use a special electric device and mildly abrasive cleaner to buff away unwanted plaque. They will also scale your teeth using a sharp implement in order to remove hard calcified tartar from your teeth.