What is the right way to brush?
Proper brushing takes at least two minutes. Most adults do not come close to brushing that long. To properly brush your teeth, use short gentle strokes paying extra attention to the gumline, hard-to-reach back teeth and areas around fillings, crowns or other restorations. Keep the brush at a 45 degree angle to the gum margin. Concentrate on thoroughly cleaning each section as follows:
- Clean the outer surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth.
- Clean the inner surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth.
- Clean the chewing surfaces.
- For fresher breath, be sure to brush your tongue too.
Use a soft-bristled brush as this is the best for removing plaque and debris from your teeth. Small headed brushes are also preferable since they can better reach all areas of the mouth, including hard-to-reach back teeth. For many, a powered toothbrush is a good alternative. Your toothbrush should be replaced when it begins to show wear or every three moths, whichever comes first.