How to Brush Your Teeth Properly

Although everyone learns to brush their teeth in childhood, not everyone uses the correct techniques. Some people never learned the latest brushing best practices. Some learned decades ago and have forgotten over the years. Many are constantly rushed, and have gradually started to cut corners in an effort to find more time in the day. 

Whatever the reasons, poor brushing habits are a significant contributor to cavities, gum disease, and worsening oral health. To ensure that your mouth remains as clean and healthy as possible, always follow these brushing best practices.

Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush that comfortably fits your mouth, and that you can manipulate without pain or difficulty. Some people find electric toothbrushes easier to use, because the brush does most of the work and the handle is easier to grip. However, any soft-bristled brush that you feel comfortable with will work.

Select an ADA (American Dental Association) approved fluoride toothpaste. Some people prefer a formulation designed for a specific need, such as sensitive teeth or whitening properties. Unless your dentist recommends a particular toothpaste, however, feel free to choose any approved formulation.

Replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if it begins to look worn. Frayed bristles do not do a good job of thoroughly cleaning teeth.

Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the faces of your teeth. Using short back and forth circular strokes, thoroughly clean the front surfaces of all teeth in one quadrant of your mouth. Switch to the chewing surfaces and then the back surfaces, using the same back and forth motions. Repeat for each quadrant.

To clean the backs of your front teeth, change the angle of the brush to near vertical, and brush up and down several times. Finally, brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

Many people, even if they use good brushing techniques, do not brush for the proper length of time. You should spend 30 seconds on each quadrant, for a total of two full minutes of brushing. Brush twice per day, or more frequently if you have braces or dental problems.

It is remarkably difficult to estimate time, so consider setting an alarm. Alternately, choose an electric toothbrush that keeps time for you. Better models will beep every 30 seconds, alerting you that is time to change quadrants.

Of course, brushing is not enough on its own, even when your technique is spotless. Flossing once per day will remove food particles and bacteria from between the teeth and along the gum line, where a toothbrush cannot reach.

Brushing and flossing are the most influential factors in keeping your mouth clean and disease-free, but there are other steps you can take to further improve your oral hygiene. Visit the dentist for a checkup and cleaning every six months, or as directed. Eat a balanced diet. Eliminate or reduce sugary snacks, and rinse your mouth with clear water after consuming sugars.

Talk to your dentist about over the counter or prescription mouthwashes, oral irrigators, and other specialty products. Some items are simply designed to impart fragrance, while others fight bacteria and decay.

Brushing your teeth has likely been second nature for as long as you can remember, and you probably pay little attention to your daily oral hygiene routine. However, there is almost always room for improvement. To be sure that your mouth is as clean and healthy as possible, make sure you are following the simple tips above.

If you have braces, dentures, or other oral appliances, your dentist will instruct you on proper care. You might need to change your normal brushing habits a bit to accommodate the appliance, and removable appliances may need to be cleaned and cared for separately. Ask your dentist for clarification.