How to Brush your Teeth?

Start with an extra soft toothbrush using a fluoridated toothpaste take a pea size amount of paste on your brush. Start in a circular motion on 1 quadrant of your mouth and work around your mouth, from one side of your mouth to the other. Keeping your brush at a 45-degree angle away from the gums. Making sure to cover each surface of every tooth, the chewing surface, the tongue/palate side of your teeth and the cheek side of your teeth. Being thorough and gentle is the key, it should take a full 2 minutes to brush. Brushing hard or using a stiff brush may cause recession and tooth wear. Make sure to replace your toothbrush at least 1 time every 3-4 months.

At the end of the two minutes, you can brush your tongue with a tongue scraper and use an antiseptic fluoridated mouthwash if desired. This will help decrease even more of the bacteria in your mouth and make your breath fresh. Flossing should be completed before you brush and done at least 1 time a day. Brushing should be completed morning and night for a total of two minutes each time. A timer or a song that last two minutes are a great way to track the time.

If you have a power brush that is oscillating, all you need to do it keep the brush at a 45-degree angle and guide it around your mouth. Ensuring to reach all surfaces of each tooth, most have a two-minute timer built in that vibrates or beeps once the time is up.

For more brushing tips and techniques ask your Dental Hygienist for more information.