The correct way to brush your teeth: Tips for the right technique

A proper oral hygiene and brushing technique are crucial for maintaining the health of teeth. It is often observed that many people do not pay enough attention to brushing their teeth, even though it is a fundamental part of daily routine. People tend to choose branded toothbrushes and toothpaste based on advertisements, without knowing the correct usage technique.

Brushing is not just an automatic activity; it is more of a learnable skill that should be acquired from childhood. Knowing and applying the right technique can contribute to maintaining long-term oral hygiene. Taking care of teeth is important not only from an aesthetic perspective but is also essential to avoid dental interventions.

Since improper brushing habits can lead to problems in the long run, it is advisable to seek advice from a professional. Establishing proper oral hygiene from childhood is essential, as our future dental health largely depends on learning the correct techniques.

The frequency and duration of brushing

The frequency and duration of brushing are crucial for oral hygiene. Ideally, teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, in the morning and evening. Morning brushing helps remove plaque accumulated overnight, while evening brushing is essential for removing bacteria and food residues deposited throughout the day.

It is important that brushing lasts at least two minutes. The proper duration ensures that every area is thoroughly cleaned. We can even measure our time with a stopwatch, as we tend to have a subjective sense of time while brushing. If we are trying a new technique, it is worth using plaque disclosing tablets to help identify areas covered with plaque.

For those with crowns, implants, or removable dentures, special attention should be paid to plaque removal. Plaque can also accumulate on prosthetics, which can lead to periodontal diseases. For thorough cleaning, it is recommended to use the techniques and tools suggested by the dentist.

The correct brushing technique

Learning the correct brushing technique is essential for maintaining the health of teeth and gums. The modified Bass technique is one of the most well-known and effective methods. In this technique, the toothbrush is placed at the gum-tooth junction at a 45-degree angle. This allows the bristles to penetrate the gum line and the tooth neck, thoroughly cleaning them.

While using circular motions, the toothbrush should be moved 15-20 times. This helps remove plaque while being gentle on the gums and tooth necks. During the brushing process, it is important to reposition the toothbrush to the next 2-3 teeth to ensure each area is properly addressed.

When using electric toothbrushes, it is also advisable to apply the correct technique. These devices often perform the circular motion automatically, but proper positioning is still fundamental. The toothbrush should be placed at the gum-tooth junction and held there for a few seconds.

Why is brushing important?

The purpose of brushing is to remove plaque, which contains bacteria. These bacteria are responsible for tooth decay and the development of periodontal diseases. Regular and thorough brushing helps prevent these problems, which can often lead to tooth loss.

Many mistakenly believe that periodontal diseases are inevitable as one ages, but by maintaining proper oral hygiene, we can avoid tooth extractions and other serious interventions. Plaque-free teeth are not only more aesthetically pleasing but also healthier.

Oral care is not just about maintaining teeth; the health of the mouth is also important. Improper hygiene habits can lead to fungal infections and other unpleasant problems. For removable dentures, daily cleaning is also essential, as these appliances can also be breeding grounds for bacteria.

Regular and properly performed brushing is an achievable goal for all of us, contributing to the preservation of long-term oral hygiene. Beautiful, healthy teeth not only represent aesthetic value but are also fundamental to the overall health of the mouth.