How to Properly Brush Your Teeth: Step By Step Guide

Brushing your teeth is one of the most important things you can do for good oral hygiene. But without practicing the right habits, you may not be getting your teeth completely clean and dental problems are more likely to appear over time. Proper technique is the key to maximizing the benefits of brushing your teeth. Here we’ll discuss some tips to help you keep your teeth strong and healthy for years to come.

Brush at a Forty-Five Degree Angle

Holding the soft/ultra-soft bristled toothbrush at this angle causes the bristles to spread out and brush a larger surface area of your teeth. It’s also easier to get between the teeth with the bristles. Use the brush firmly, but don’t use an excessive amount of pressure. Brushing with too much force over time can cause the teeth to become more sensitive and damage the gums.

Brush for Two Minutes

Brushing for a few minutes gives you the time you need to brush your entire mouth thoroughly. If you brush for less time, you may end up with a fresh feeling mouth, but you likely haven’t given the toothbrush enough time to dislodge the plaque. Brushing for at least a few minutes allows you to brush both the front and back of your teeth as well as the biting surfaces.

Brush Up and Down in Small, Circular Patterns

Don’t brush in a back and forth motion. Doing so makes it difficult to get between your teeth and reach the plaque and debris that builds up after meals. To thoroughly brush your teeth, clean the outer surfaces, then clean the inside surfaces, then brush the tips of your teeth. Make sure to brush the molars as well.

Don’t Forget to Brush your Tongue

Brushing your tongue helps clean away the bacteria that cause bad breath. Brush gently to not damage the delicate tissue of your tongue. Also, make sure to prioritize brushing the back of your tongue as it’s the primary culprit that causes bad breath. Keeping your tongue clean will also help you wake up in the morning with a mouth that feels fresher.

Replace your Toothbrush Every Three to Four Months

To keep your toothbrush at it’s peak effectiveness, it’s necessary to replace it every few months. When the bristles start to look tattered or flared at the tips, or are 3-4 months old, whichever comes first, it’s time to replace the toothbrush. When looking for a replacement, consider buying one with soft bristles that won’t damage your gums or the other soft tissues of your mouth. Also, think about which brush size and handle angle will be most comfortable for you.

If you are in the market for an electric toothbrush, talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about choices and how to use an electric toothbrush for effective brushing. Not all brushes are equal, and brushing techniques vary between manual and electric toothbrushes.

Brushing your teeth properly is a good habit that provides lifelong benefits. Not only will you have a healthy set of teeth, you will have the confidence that comes with a great smile and save time and money at your next dental visit. Brushing several times a day combined with regular flossing will help keep your teeth healthy and strong for a long time to come. If you have any questions about the proper technique to brushing your teeth or need professional teeth cleaning, feel free to contact us.