Every morning, you fumble for your brush. Brushing is one of the most important aspects of maintaining oral hygiene. Doing it properly can help you to take off small food particles that get stuck between the teeth. It is essential to remove the food particles stuck behind your teeth as it can cause tooth decay and dental cavities.  

Great oral health starts with regular brushing and flossing, but most people don’t know how to brush. Improper brushing can cause several tooth conditions. These tooth conditions, if left untreated can often result in severe consequences such as tooth loss. However, practicing proper brushing technique can help you to prevent certain diseases like: –         

1.     Gingivitis

2.     Periodontitis

3.     Tooth sensitivity

4.     Increased plaque buildup

5.     Gum recession

6.     Staining of teeth

Classification of Tooth Brushing Techniques: 

The following are the categories of tooth brushing techniques depending on the movement and motion:

1.     The Bass or sulcus cleaning method

2.     Modified bass technique

3.     Modified Stillman’s technique

4.     Fones or circular or scrub method

5.     Vertical or Leonard’s method

6.     Charter’s method

7.     Scrub brush method

8.     The roll technique

9.     Physiologic or smith method

How to Brush Your Teeth in a Right Way?

●       Brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2-5 minutes.

●       Start with the outer surface of the upper teeth and end with an inner surface of the upper teeth.

●       Repeat the same for your lower teeth.

●       Don’t forget to clean the chewing surface and tongue for fresh breath.

Right Way of Moving Your Toothbrush: –

For healthy mouth and smile, follow the right brushing instructions: 

●       Consider Horizontal Scrub Method (up-and-down or back-and-forth linear motion) for brushing. 

●       Hold your brush in a way such that the bristles touch all your teeth and gums. Now move the brush back and front.

●       Target your brush towards the chewing surface and brush your tongue too

●       Follow the teeth contours to hit every teeth surface

●       Never rotate your brush too fast or harsh as it can harm your teeth and gums

●       Consider oscillating or rotating brushes as they are more effective in removing plaque

●       Rinse your toothbrush in water and place it in the upright position

●       Don’t store your toothbrush in a closed container and allow it to air dry

●       Replace your toothbrush for every 3-4 months   

Common Brushing Mistakes You Commit 

Using a higher amount of water for brushing. Too much use of water dilutes the fluoride components

Brushing too roughly. It can harm your teeth and gums

Brushing side to side and for short enough

Ignoring all the surfaces and tongue

Using a toothbrush that is too large  

Conclusion:

Proper tooth brushing techniques are must to maintain good dental care. Paying attention to certain indications can help you make sure that your teeth are thoroughly cleaned. The simple instructions when followed for brushing sessions can help you get closer to a perfect smile.   

Talk to your dentist about the best brushing technique for your oral health, because brushing techniques differ from person to person. Ask him or her for ideal dental hygiene products that fit your circumstances.