How To Properly Brush Your Teeth

You’ve likely always heard about the importance of brushing your teeth. But, has brushing your teeth turned into something that you do quickly, out of habit and necessity? There is a proper method to brushing your teeth that ensures your teeth are thoroughly cleaned.

• Be Sure That You Have The Right Tool – A soft-bristled brush is most recommended, as it is a great way to remove the plaque, bacteria, and food particles that have accumulated in your teeth. Brushes with a smaller head are more maneuverable, and are better for reaching difficult areas in your mouth. You should replace your toothbrush when it begins to show wear. Your toothbrush should have a lifespan of about three months – it should be replaced after that.
• Use A 45-Degree Angle – When brushing, your toothbrush should be placed at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
• Use Short Strokes – Brush back and forth using short, gentle strokes.
• Clean Your Entire Tooth – Be thorough when brushing, covering all surfaces of your teeth. This includes the outer surfaces, the inside surfaces, and your chewing surfaces. You should clean the outer surfaces of your upper teeth, and then the outer surfaces of your lower teeth. Then, clean the inner surfaces of your upper teeth, and then the inner surfaces of your lower teeth. In order to clean the inside surfaces of your front teeth, you should use up-and-down strokes while tilting the brush vertically. Clean your chewing surfaces last. Don’t forget about your molars, teeth that can be hard to reach in the back of your mouth.
• But It’s Not Just Your Teeth – You should also focus on your gum line and any areas where you’ve had dental work done, such as fillings and crowns. When brushing your gums, you should use a sweeping or rolling motion.
• Don’t Forget Your Tongue – Your tongue is hotbed for bacteria growth, which can lead to bad breath. It is often overlooked when brushing, so don’t neglect it.
• When You Think You’re Done, Keep Going – It is recommended that you brush for two minutes (!), which many people do not even come close to completing. Next time you brush, use a stopwatch, but brush as you normally would. You’ll be surprised at how much longer you need to keep brushing!

If you have any questions about brushing, make sure you contact your dental professional. Not only should they be able to answer your questions, but they should be able to help give personalized recommendations that fit your oral profile, such as the type of toothbrush or toothpaste to use.