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Tooth-Brushing Technique

The Proper Tooth-Brushing Technique for Daily Oral Care

Plaque cannot be removed by a stream of water! Plaque adheres to the surface of the teeth and dental restorations and can only be removed mechanically – with a TOOTHBRUSH! What is the proper tooth-brushing technique? It consists of four steps.

Step 1.

Place the toothbrush at a 45° angle, so that the bristles contact both the tooth surface and the gums. Begin making small vibrating movements, which should last approximately ten seconds. Finish with a sweeping, rotational movement using the wrist.

Depending on the size of the toothbrush head, clean a group of 2–3 teeth at a time.

Step 2.

Do not forget the inner surfaces of the teeth and the back teeth.

Always remember to maintain a 45° angle between the toothbrush and the gum line!

Step 3.

The inner surfaces of the front teeth can be cleaned using the tip of the toothbrush.

Step 4.

Finally, clean each group of teeth at least three times using a sweeping, rotational movement with the wrist. Do not forget to clean the “chewing” surfaces of the teeth in both the upper and lower jaws.

Never apply excessive pressure to the toothbrush. Incorrect brushing can cause irreversible damage to the enamel and may lead to tooth sensitivity.
Hold the toothbrush like a pen or pencil. This allows for better control of the toothbrush and more effective cleaning.
Replace your toothbrush every 2–3 months at the latest. Worn bristles are less effective at removing microbial plaque from the tooth surface.
Brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen the enamel and increase its resistance to tooth decay.

A toothbrush should always have:

a small head for effective cleaning of the back teeth;
soft bristles for gentle, non-traumatic cleaning;
densely packed bristles to remove as much plaque and debris as possible from the tooth surface.