There is undoubtedly a wrong way to brush your teeth, as anyone who has watched a seven-year-old can confirm. You may even know an adult or two who does not know how to do it properly. Even though it looks so simple, mistakes happen often. Perhaps you do not brush long enough or often enough. Perhaps your brush is too old or too hard. It is possible that you do not always use the whole mouth. And then there was the occasion — or the occasions — when you skipped brushing before bed. It has happened to all of us. Your teeth and gums are cleaned when you brush thoroughly. If plaque is left untreated, tartar can form. Learn the right technique to avoid decay and gum disease and to maintain your family’s general oral health.
What you need
1. Time (just a little)
The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day for at least two minutes. To make sure you keep to the full two minutes, setting a timer can help. There are even music-based apps designed so that children can tell when they are finished.
2. The right toothbrush
For safety and efficiency, choose a manual or electric brush with soft or medium bristles. Pick one that is easy to use and lets you reach every part of your mouth. Replace your brush if it is older than three months, if it is worn, or if you have just recovered from a cold, since the bristles can harbour germs.
3. Plain toothpaste
Any fluoride toothpaste will do. In reality no frills are necessary. We usually advise ordinary toothpaste, to save money and to be kind to gums and teeth — some whitening agents and additives can irritate sensitive areas of the mouth.
How to brush
Place the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum. Move the brush back and forth in short strokes. This is not the moment to work off the day’s frustrations; be firm but gentle instead. Remember to floss every day, either before or after brushing.
- Clean all teeth on the outer, inner and chewing surfaces.
- To clean the inside of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and stroke up and down.
- Pay particular attention to hard-to-reach teeth, fillings, crowns or other places where debris could easily hide.
- Brush your tongue to keep your breath fresh and kill bacteria.
- Rinse your mouth and your brush with tap water to remove leftover toothpaste and debris.
- You can also rinse your mouth with mouthwash.
