Brush with Intention: How to Brush Your Teeth

Tooth Health - 28th Feb 14

When it comes to brushing your teeth, there are only a few hard and fast rules. That said, many people still find them tough to follow and stick to a consistent regime. Here’s how to properly brush your teeth and a few tips to help you stick with it:

Daily double: Brush for Two Minutes, Twice a Day

Brush for at least two minutes, twice a day. Most of us brush for only about 45 seconds—not even close to two minutes. To get an idea of what two minutes actually feels like, set a timer or play a song while brushing your teeth. Try not to brush immediately after eating or drinking as, over time, this may increase enamel wear.

Easy does it: Brush softly to best clean and protect enamel

Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and brush gently.

You shouldn’t brush your teeth with the same force you might use to scrub the dishes. Studies show that excessively vigorous brushing can damage enamel. Use a soft-bristled brush and try gripping it like a pencil to help get the right angle for gentle brushing.

Leave no tooth behind: Brush thoroughly and carefully

One widely recommended technique is to brush in small circles with short, tooth-wide strokes. Why not try this, unless advised differently by your dental professional. Be sure to brush the outer, inner, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.

You have two minutes to fill so you might as well brush thoroughly. One trick is to pretend you’re painting your teeth like a wall, so be sure to cover the entire surface of each tooth with the brush.