Teeth brushing technique – Everything you need to know

  • General Dentistry   •   Aug  25, 2022

Teeth Brushing – Everything you need to know.

It’s probably safe to say that most people know how to brush their teeth – after all, it’s a pretty basic hygiene habit. However, just because you know how to do something doesn’t mean you’re doing it correctly. In fact, many people are actually brushing their teeth the wrong way and causing more harm than good!

In this article, we are going to talk about teeth brushing techniques and how using the wrong method can actually be doing more harm than good.

So read on to learn more and make sure you are brushing your teeth the right way!

Why it is important to brush your teeth.

Let’s start by looking at why it is important to brush your teeth twice a day.

The main reason is to remove plaque – a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Plaque can cause tooth decay and gum disease if it’s not removed.

Brushing your teeth also helps to prevent bad breath by removing food and bacteria from your mouth.

So as you can see, there are plenty of good reasons to make sure you are brushing your teeth correctly!

What is the correct tooth brushing technique?

Now that we know why it is important to brush our teeth, let’s look at the correct way to do it.

The first step is to choose the right toothbrush. There are many different types of toothbrushes on the market, so it’s important to choose one that is soft. 

If you have trouble reaching all of your teeth with a regular toothbrush, you may want to try an electric toothbrush. These toothbrushes can be easier to use and more effective at removing plaque.

The next step is to choose the right toothpaste. There are many different types of toothpaste available, so it’s important to find one that is right for you. If you have sensitive teeth, there are toothpastes designed specifically for this.

Once you have chosen the right toothbrush and toothpaste, it’s time to start brushing! The correct technique is to use gentle, circular motions. Be sure to brush on the inside surfaces of your teeth as well as the outside and the biting surfaces.

The correct technique to use when brushing with an electric toothbrush

If you’re using an electric toothbrush, the basic technique is to hold the brush head on each tooth for a few seconds, as the head circulates and does all the work for you. Be sure to brush the inside as well as the outside and biting surfaces. 

There are some additional tips to keep in mind when using an electric toothbrush. First, make sure you are using the correct head for your toothbrush, again this should be a soft head. 

Secondly and most importantly, don’t press too hard – let the toothbrush do the work. Pushing too hard can damage your teeth and gums and lead to irreversible gum recession.

Finally, be sure to replace the toothbrush head every three months or as recommended by the manufacturer.

The Common Tooth Brushing Mistakes

One of the most common mistakes people make when brushing their teeth is using too much pressure. This can damage your tooth enamel and lead to sensitivity, tooth pain, and even gum recession. Instead of scrubbing vigorously, use gentle circular motions and let the toothbrush do the work.

Another mistake people make is not brushing for long enough. You should be brushing your teeth for at least two minutes – that’s the amount of time it takes to thoroughly clean all of your teeth. If you’re rushed in the morning or just not a fan of brushing your teeth, try setting a timer to make sure you brush for long enough.

Finally, people often forget to brush their tongue. Your tongue can harbour bacteria and lead to bad breath, so it’s important to give it a good scrub with your toothbrush. Just make sure you use a gentle back-and-forth motion – no need to go overboard!

In summary

Brushing your teeth correctly is important for maintaining good oral health. By using the correct technique, you can help to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. So take the time to brush correctly – your teeth will thank you for it!

If you have any questions about the correct tooth brushing technique for you, be sure to ask one of our dentists at your next appointment.  Call us on 07 5591 3620 or email admin@starbrightdental.com.au to book a consultation.

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