Like many things we do in life, there is a correct way to accomplish a task and a variety of incorrect ways to do things. Brushing your teeth is one of those tasks where knowing the right way to accomplish the task can produce more effective and safer results. Tips for brushing correctly start with the idea that maintaining good oral hygiene doesn’t just consist of brushing your teeth. Your gums are also an important area that shouldn’t be overlooked on a daily basis.
To keep both your teeth and gums clean, how you hold your toothbrush is important.
When you were young you were probably taught to hold your brush on your teeth and basically rub back and forth. While using any technique to brush your teeth is better than not brushing them at all, there is a better way to clean your teeth. According to the American Dental Hygienists’ Association you should always hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, placing the bristles along the gumline.1
Brushing Technique
Concentrating on two or three teeth at a time you should then gently brush the outer tooth surfaces using both a back and forth and a rolling motion which gradually moves your toothbrush downward toward the chewing surface. Doing so will ensure you brush the entire surface of each tooth.
After all the outer teeth have been cleaned repeat this technique on all your inner teeth surfaces. Then take your toothbrush and tilt it vertically behind your front teeth stroking up and down several times using the front half of the brush.
The final step in brushing your teeth is to clean the biting surfaces by using a gentle back and forth scrubbing motion with your toothbrush You should also brush your tongue to remove odor producing bacteria. Experts advise that you think of cleaning your teeth more as massaging your teeth and gums rather than scrubbing them.2
Duration of Brushing
While not using the correct technique is one of the most common errors when brushing teeth, one of the other common errors is not brushing for a long enough period of time. You should brush for two minutes twice per day with fluoride toothpaste according to the guidelines of the American Dental Association.3 There was actually a study commissioned by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association which was published in a 2009 edition of The Journal of Dental Hygiene which revealed that the average person brushes for just 45 seconds, but they should be brushing their teeth for a minimum of two minutes.4
The study found that brushing for three minutes has even greater benefit, as it removes more plaque. Brushing for 2 minutes removed 26 percent more plaque than brushing for the average 45 seconds; brushing for 3 minutes removed 55 percent more plaque. Plaque is the film that forms on teeth when bacteria in the mouth mix with sugar or starch from foods you eat. Plaque left on teeth hardens into a substance called tartar and can lead to cavities, gum disease and tooth loss.5
Proper tooth brushing technique, combine with a visit to your dentist every six month, can go a long way in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. If you have questions about how to brush ask your dentist or hygienist on your next check-up.
Schedule a Dental Check Up
A healthy mouth begins with regular dental checkups and daily brushing that’s done correctly. Our dental clinic in Commerce Twp can help educate you on the importance of dental health and proper daily practices.
If you have dental concerns or are looking for a new dentist, look no further. For 20 years, Sedki Dentistry has been keeping mouths healthy and happy with the latest techniques, treatments, and technology available. Our services include cosmetic dentistry, restorative dental treatments, gum rejuvenation, children’s dentistry and so much more. Call and schedule a Free Dental Consultation with Dr. Sedki and see why he is a preferred dentist throughout the Lakes area and beyond!
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1 Proper Brushing
Link: https://www.adha.org/sites/default/files/7221_Proper_Brushing_1.pdf
2,4 Your Gum Disease Risk Soars If You Brush Your Teeth Like This, Experts Warn
Link: https://bestlifeonline.com/brush-teeth-45-degree-angle-news/
3 Quick Facts: Toothbrushing
Link: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/~/media/MouthHealthy/Files/A-Z/Infographic_Brushing_102714.pdf?la=en
5 Dental Plaque
Link: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10953-plaque