Brushing Technique- How to Improve Yours

08 December 2021

Brushing Technique- How to Improve Yours

Brushing technique is really important for healthy teeth and gums. We are all doing it- but are we doing it correctly? Having great brushing technique will improve your dental hygiene and decrease the chance of tooth decay. Follow or top tips to improve yours.

1.Use an electric toothbrush for the best brushing technique

Electric toothbrushes are much more effective than manual ones. Philips Sonicare and Oral B are both great brands to invest in.

2. Brush at least twice per day

Brush morning and night for at least 2 minutes each time. Add an extra brush after lunch if you can. Always follow with flossing.

3. Spend 30 seconds or more on each quadrant for great brushing technique

The mouth is divided into quadrants. Spend 30 seconds on each, holding the toothbrush on each tooth for a few seconds before moving onto the next. Once you have brushed the front of each tooth in that quadrant for a few seconds, move onto the back of each tooth. Again, spend a few seconds on each surface before moving onto the next.

Diagram showing the four quadrants of the mouth

4. Hold the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to the gum line

Don’t hold the toothbrush head flat against the surface of the tooth. Hold it at a 45 degree angle to the gum line so that the bristles can clean between the teeth and gums.

5. If using a manual, use circular motions

If you don’t have an electric toothbrush follow all the above points for good brushing technique but, rather than holding the brush still on each tooth you must brush each tooth using circular movements, not back and forth ones.

Watch a video explaining good brushing technique here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQSJKQkqLrU

For further information visit this section of our website: https://www.cheadlehulmedental.com/treatment/dental-hygiene-and-therapy.html