How to brush your teeth CORRECTLY

We have been brushing our teeth since we can recall and for most of us, it’s the first thing we do in the morning. It is an essential part of maintaining dental hygiene. But, how many of us brush our teeth correctly? We have learnt brushing habits from our parents mainly. However, parents are often ill-informed on correct method of brushing which passes on to their children. Incorrect brushing often renders brushing habits ineffective. Very few adults know how to properly brush their teeth. Incorrect brushing habits can lead to dental problems such as plaque accumulation, gum bleeding, bad breath, gum disease, tooth decay etc.

How to brush your teeth correctly and effectively

1. Tooth brushes with soft bristles are preferred as they hard bristles tend to damage your gums. Tooth brushes can be chosen on individual preference. Basically, choose one that you are comfortable with.  Note that brushes with excessively large heads are not very conducive for brushing as they can’t reach crevices in the oral cavity.

2. Wash your brush before using it. A small amount of tooth paste (pea size) is enough for brushing. You do not need to cover all the bristles with toothpaste.

3. Hold the tooth brush angulated at 45 degrees to your teeth towards the gums. Do not hold the brush flatly against your teeth.

4. Start from the posterior most teeth of the upper jaw. There are 3 surfaces of the teeth to be cleaned mainly.

1. The chewing surface of teeth.

2. The surface of the teeth facing the cheek (Outer surface)

3. Inner surfaces of the teeth.

Start with 3 teeth at a time. Clean on all 3 surfaces of the teeth (Chewing, outer and inner). Use gentle pressure and short back and forth motions rather than vigorous brushing.

5. After cleaning the 3 back most teeth, move on the next 3 teeth.

6. After you have completed brushing your upper teeth, move on to your lower teeth and complete brushing in a similar fashion.

7. After brushing your teeth, brush along the gum line gently to remove any lodged food particles. Also, brush your tongue to keep bad breath at bay.

Well, now you know how to brush teeth correctly. So, employ this and pass it on to others.