A bright and healthy smile starts with proper oral hygiene. Proper oral hygiene is the first step to a healthy and radiant smile; and brushing your teeth is a vital part of an effective dental care routine. But did you know that there is a proper brushing method that may improve its efficacy? The right technique ensures thorough cleaning, removes plaque and bacteria, and promotes gum health. In this guide, we will explore the essential steps and tips for achieving the perfect brushing technique.
Before we start on the right brushing technique, let’s have a quick check on some of the most common mistakes that we make while brushing our teeth:
Soft, Medium, Hard or Sensitive – which toothbrush should you pick? Manual or Electric? There are a plethora of options available. However, most of us do not know which is the right toothbrush & often end up picking the cheapest / same toothbrush as the others in the family
One of the most common myths while brushing is – the harder you brush, the whiter your teeth will be.
Since brushing is perceived as just a daily, unavoidable routine, we tend to finish off the activity as soon as we can.
When was the last time you replaced your toothbrush? Most people continue using the same brush for 6-8 months until it wears out completely. It is essential to replace your toothbrush every 3 months. If you are using an electric toothbrush, make sure that the brush heads are replaced every 3 months.
It is a common practice to brush left & right. However, the correct way is to brush in a circular motion. More on that, later!
The areas where the teeth meet the gums are often prone to bacteria. We usually do not brush behind the teeth / under the gums. We spend more time on the chewing surface and tend to miss the gum line.
Surprised at how you have been brushing the wrong way all these years? What is the right way to brush them? It’s time we make conscious efforts to change our brushing habits:
Brushing with a soft-bristles toothbrush is ideal. However, we recommend that you check the type of toothbrush / bristles best suited for your teeth with your dentist.
Remember, brushing is like massaging your teeth. Gently massage your teeth, gum line & inner gums in a circular motion. Continue this process for at least 2min.
Image Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/how-to-brush-your-teeth#with-a-standard-toothbrush
Brushing our teeth correctly is vital for maintaining good oral health. Avoid common mistakes such as using the wrong toothbrush, brushing too hard, rushing the routine, and neglecting the gum line. Opt for the right toothbrush, massage your teeth gently in a circular motion, and replace your toothbrush regularly.
It is not just important to brush your teeth, it is more important to brush the correct way. Don’t forget – Health begins from the mouth!
FAQs
Why is proper brushing technique important?
It is important to brush your teeth and floss to prevent gum disease. Refusal to brush one's teeth for several days can lead to the onset of gum disease. Brushing ensures the removal of plaque, which is the primary cause for tooth decay and gum disease; it also arrests the build-up of any plaque formation.
What is the effect of the wrong brushing technique?
Consequences of Poor Brushing Habits include increased plaque buildup, which hardens into tartar (this can only be removed by a professional), gum recession with repeated intense brushing, staining of teeth in areas neglected by “pattern brushing” (always brushing the same places).
