How to Brush Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth can seem like a simple and straightforward activity, but in reality, it’s actually quite time consuming. In order to brush your teeth in the most effective way possible, you’ll need to understand the structure of your mouth and the function of each tooth, gum, muscle, and bone involved. With this guide on how to brush your teeth, you’ll learn all the ins and outs of proper brushing technique so that you can brush like the dentist office pros do!

When should I brush my teeth?

The best time of day to brush your teeth is after you wake up in the morning. Cleaning your teeth the first thing in the morning helps get rid of plaque and food particles that have built up while you were sleeping. It also helps ensure that these things don't stick around all day long, causing damage to your teeth and gums.

Should I use an electric or manual toothbrush?

With an electric toothbrush, you can improve your daily brushing routine. Electric brushes generally come with multiple settings, too, so that you can customize it to fit your needs.

But more important than whether you choose an electric or manual toothbrush is how well you use it. Quality of care is more important than tool choice! When properly used, an electric toothbrush will help remove bacteria and plaque from teeth and gums. Regardless of whether you use a manual or electric brush, it’s vital that you’re brushing for two minutes at least twice a day—morning and night—and replacing your brush head every three months.

What should I look for in a toothbrush?

In general, you want a brush with soft bristles that are curved and pointed, which can get into all those hard-to-reach places. The best way to pick out a toothbrush is by feeling its bristles — if they’re too hard or rough, look for another one. Also make sure you check how long it lasts before replacing it (generally speaking at least every three months). Try placing your old toothbrush in water for about two minutes — if any of the bristles fall out, you’ll need a new one soon.

What type of toothpaste should I use?

Dentists recommend using a fluoride toothpaste that contains 1000-1500 parts per million (ppm) of fluoride. While many types are available, look for ingredients like xylitol, strontium chloride and calcium carbonate, which help fight cavities and control plaque. If you’re looking for an even stronger formula, there are also prescription versions of toothpaste with much higher levels of fluoride; ask your dentist what would be best for you.

How to brush your teeth

Using Bass brushing technique and warm water. Cleaning too much can actually do more harm than good because it irritates your gums, causing them to bleed and inflame, giving bacteria an easy place to settle in. Take care of your teeth first thing in the morning (after brushing, rinse with mouthwash) and last thing at night (wash with a regular brush).

importance of flossing

Removing plaque that hardens between teeth is easier and more effective with a flossing tool, which you can buy in most drugstores. You should floss at least once a day before brushing, for best results; however, don’t bother flossing after every meal or snack. Studies have shown that over-flossing or using the wrong technique can actually cause damage to your gums and teeth!

Also focus on eating healthy foods—including fruits, vegetables and whole grains—that will help strengthen your enamel naturally. If you don’t feel like doing it after every meal or snack then try doing it once a day before bed so your mouth has time to rest overnight.

How to floss

Brushing your teeth isn’t always enough to remove plaque and prevent gum disease and cavities. That’s why it’s important to floss, too. It takes less than five minutes, but studies show that around 90 percent of people don’t do it regularly.

Flossing helps reduce bad breath, halitosis (bad breath), and keeps your gums healthy by removing harmful bacteria that can cause periodontal disease. If you find flossing difficult, try using dental tape or a water pick for an easier cleanse. Plus, many brands now make floss-picks—flossers with handles—that are easy to use on even crowded teeth.

Should I use mouthwash?

When should I use mouthwash? Mouthwash is usually used after brushing. It helps reduce bad breath, among other things. While it's not a must, we encourage you to rinse your mouth with a diluted solution of mouthwash after brushing and flossing.