Two Minutes. Twice a Day. You Got This.





By Back Mike Wong February 20, 2018

two minutes twice a day

Take two minutes

“Too busy” to brush your teeth? That’s a poor excuse. You make time for the things that are important to you, like watching your favorite TV show, perusing your social media accounts, reading the news, shaving your shadow, applying your make-up, and styling your mane.

If you have time to do all that, you can certainly carve out two minutes twice a day with your toothbrush. Alone time with those soft bristles is essential for optimal oral health. Quality cleaning disrupts dental plaque and bacteria and brushes away the slippery slime layer (yes, that’s a thing). So set your smartphone timer for the dentist-recommended two minutes.

Keep your mouth healthy

Your mouth is the gateway to your overall health. An unhealthy mouth can be associated with gum disease, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. If you have reduced mobility or have difficulty staying focused for two minutes with a conventional manual brush, it may be time to invest in an American Dental Association-approved electric model. Ask your dentist or hygienist which one is right for you.

Outfit yourself with a quality brush

Most high-quality electric toothbrushes are outfitted with a convenient two-minute preprogrammed timer. According to research, that’s how long it takes to clean your entire mouth.

Mind the gaps

Submerged in saliva 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, our mouths are a habitat designed for failure if we’re not careful. Keep in mind, there are a lot of parts in there besides teeth that need love and attention at least twice a day, like your gums, tongue and soft tissue. Make the most of your brushing time and don’t ignore all these little nooks and crannies:

  • Frontside of teeth
  • Backside of teeth
  • Chewing surface of teeth
  • Gum line
  • Gums
  • Tongue
  • Under tongue
  • Roof of mouth
  • Inside cheeks

Get an exam

If it’s been more than six months since your last oral exam or if your gums bleed when you brush, it’s time to make an appointment with your dental professional.