How to Brush Your Teeth – Correctly!

You wake up and brush your teeth first thing in the morning and brush your teeth again right before going to bed.  But have you ever wondered if you are brushing your teeth correctly?  Properly brushing your teeth and using the appropriate techniques will ensure that your teeth are being cleaned appropriately.  Inadequate brushing will leave plaque build-up and improperly brushing can damage your teeth and gums.  Here we will review the proper technique to brushing your teeth and some tips to help your teeth stay healthy!

Proper Brushing Technique

1. Place a small amount of toothpaste on the bristles of your toothbrush.
2. Start on the upper molars in the back of your teeth.
3. Angle your toothbrush at 45 degrees to the gums.
4. Brush by gently moving your toothbrush back and forth, and up and down in short circular strokes. Roll the brush head away from the gum line to sweep the surface of the tooth.
5. Move to brushing across your outer and inner surfaces of your teeth, and the chewing surface of your teeth in the same way as steps 4.
6. Tilt your toothbrush vertically to the gums.
7. Brush the inside surfaces of your front teeth by making up and down strokes.
8. Repeat the process on the bottom teeth starting from step 3 and ending on step 7.
9. Gently brush your tongue.
10. Rinse your mouth with water or mouth wash.

Brushing Tips

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day for about 2 to 3 minutes each time for healthy teeth and gums.
• Remember to brush your tongue and on the side of the tongue to help remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush for gentle cleaning of the surfaces of your teeth and for more effective cleaning.
• Smaller headed toothbrushes are preferred because they can better reach all areas of the mouth.
• Change your toothbrush at least every 3 to 4 months or when it begins to wear down, which ever comes first.
• Don’t forget to brush the gum line to help remove the bacteria that hang out in this area.
• Rinse your mouth with water right before starting to brush to get rid of some of the acid in your mouth.
• Don’t forget to floss before brushing your teeth to help remove plaque and food that are stuck in between your teeth and in the hard to reach places.

Reach out to California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 if you have any questions about proper steps in brushing your teeth or if you’d like an appointment for a dental check up!