In the correct brushing technique, the brush is held at a 45-degree angle to the gum line, small circular motions are used instead of harsh back-and-forth scrubbing, and plaque is then removed with a sweeping motion from the gum toward the tooth. The inner surfaces, chewing surfaces and tongue should also be cleaned. Brushing should last at least 2 minutes.
- A soft or medium brush is recommended; a hard brush can cause gum recession.
- Do not press too hard while brushing.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months or after an illness.
- Use dental floss or an interdental brush once a day.
- Clean the tongue gently from back to front.
Correct Tooth Brushing Steps
1. Set the Right Angle
Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line (where the tooth meets the gum). It is important that the bristles touch both the tooth surface and the gum pocket.
2. Gentle, Circular Motions
Instead of scrubbing the brush hard back and forth, make small circular or vibrating motions. This loosens plaque without damaging the gums.
3. Don’t Forget the “Sweeping” Motion
After the circular motions, move the brush from the gum toward the tooth (top to bottom or bottom to top) as if sweeping. This ensures plaque is removed completely.
4. Clean the Inner Surfaces
Clean the inner (tongue-side) surfaces of the teeth at the same angle. To clean the inside of the front teeth, hold the brush upright and make up-and-down strokes.
5. Chewing Surfaces
On the chewing surfaces of the teeth (the tops of the back molars), move the brush back and forth to clean debris from the grooves.
6. Brush Your Tongue
Most of the bacteria that cause bad breath collect on the tongue. At the end of brushing, gently clean your tongue from back to front.
Golden Rules and Recommendations
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Duration: For effective cleaning, you should brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes.
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Choosing a Brush: Soft or medium brushes are generally recommended. Hard brushes can lead to gum recession and enamel wear.
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Don’t Apply Pressure: Don’t press too hard while brushing your teeth. If the bristles of your brush splay outward within a short time (1–2 months), you are brushing too hard.
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Replacing Your Brush: Be sure to replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months or after an illness.
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Dental Floss: For the surfaces between the teeth that the brush cannot reach, be sure to use dental floss or an interdental brush once a day.
