How to Brush Your Teeth Properly

Hello, I'm Maria. And I'm Candis. We are both registered dental hygienists at Dentistry at East Piedmont.

Today, I'm going to share with you the best practices for brushing your teeth. It is an essential part of maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile.

Choosing the right tools is the first step toward effective oral hygiene. I recommend using a soft-bristle toothbrush. It is gentle on your gums but tough on plaque. For toothpaste, opt for one that contains fluoride, which helps strengthen the tooth enamel and fight decay. Just a pea-sized amount is enough.

When you're using your toothbrush, separate your arches. Put the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth, not flat against them. Small circular motions near the gum line help remove plaque next to the gingival margin and give you a better clean.

To access the lingual surfaces of the teeth, you can turn your brush vertically into a flicking motion. And if there's anywhere you want to apply pressure, it will be the grooves of the teeth, where you can really go to town.

Brush for at least two minutes, twice a day. Many electric toothbrushes have built-in timers to help you keep track of the time.

Thorough brushing is key to removing plaque and preventing gum disease and tooth decay.

Besides your teeth, it's also important to clean your gums and tongue, which can harbor bacteria leading to bad breath and other oral health issues. Gently brush your gums and tongue, or use a tongue scraper to keep your entire mouth clean and fresh.

Regular brushing, done correctly, is fundamental to your dental health. If you have any questions about your brushing technique or want personalized recommendations, we're here to help.

Schedule your next dental checkup with us and let's keep your smile bright and healthy together.