How to use the toothbrush

Using the toothbrush in a proper way is the first step to maintain healthy gingiva and teeth. According to many studies, each person needs at least two minutes to clean all the teeth. You should use the toothbrush twice a day and be sure to clean all teeth surfaces and remove the plaque which contains the bacteria that cause gingival inflammation and teeth decay.

What is the best way to use toothbrush?

There are many ways you can use for brushing your teeth. You should ask you dentist or your hygienist about the best way for your case. Here is an example about one of the techniques for using manual toothbrush:

   

First step:

For cleaning of the outer teeth surfaces: hold the brush at 45° toward the gingiva  
Start moving the brush gently with short strokes forward and backward on the teeth & the gingiva  

   

Use this way to clean the outer surface of all the teeth  

   

Second step:

Use the same way to clean the inner teeth surfaces  

   

Third step:

To clean the upper surfaces of the teeth, put the brush on these surfaces and move it gently forward and backward  

 

Fourth step:

For cleaning the inner surfaces of anterior teeth, hold the brush as shown in the picture and move it up and down using the brush head for cleaning the teeth.  

   

Fifth step:

Also clean your tongue using the toothbrush or tongue brush, this will keep you breath fresh.  


Types of Tuthbrush:


Selection of the toothbrush depends on your dentist recommendations and your personal preference. It is very important to choose soft toothbrush unless your dentist advice you otherwise, also use gentle pressure while brushing. Using medium or hard toothbrush or using too much force while brushing may cause gingival recession and exposure of the root, which lead to teeth sensitivity and longer ugly teeth.

Is there a difference between electric and manual toothbrush :

Many studies have been conducted for comparing manual and electric toothbrushes, most of these studies found no difference between these two types in teeth cleaning, plaque removal, and preventing gingival diseases. So selection of the toothbrush type is mainly a personal preference.



Last Update
10/11/2008 3:34:23 PM