How to Properly Brush Your Teeth
Circular Brushing Technique
This brushing technique is excellent for children who are learning to brush their teeth. The toothbrush is positioned directly toward the teeth, the mouth can be open (one arch at a time) or closed (both arches at the same time), and the toothbrush is worked in a circular motion on the teeth and the gums. The brush should be pressed gently, not firmly, onto the teeth and gums. This technique is repeated throughout the entire mouth on the front and backsides of the teeth. For the biting surfaces, a back and forth scrubbing motion is used.
Stillman’s Brushing Technique
For Stillman’s brushing technique, the brush is placed at a 45-degree angle, partially on the teeth and partially on top of the gums. A slight vibrating motion is used to dislodge plaque from on top of the gum line. Next, a rolling stroke is used away from the gums. Continue this vibrating stroke, then rolling stroke around the mouth, top and bottom front and back. For the biting surfaces, a back and forth scrubbing motion is used.
Bass Brushing Technique
The Bass brushing technique utilizes a similar technique to Stillman’s, but the bristles are placed partially on the teeth and partially underneath the gum line. The vibrating motion helps the bristles of the toothbrush access underneath the gum line. This brushing technique is the best for removing plaque underneath the gum line for people with gingivitis. Again, for the biting surfaces, a back and forth scrubbing motion is used.
Electric Toothbrush Technique
The technique for electric toothbrushes is much different than for manual toothbrushes. The electric toothbrush does most of the work. You simply have to help it by moving it along to access all surfaces of all teeth. An electric toothbrush performs more brush strokes than you can do with your hand with a manual toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes either use an oscillating motion or a sweeping motion. Some electric toothbrushes even come with a pressure indicator to alert you if you apply too much pressure.
If you have any questions about toothbrush techniques or whether to use an electric or a manual toothbrush, we encourage you to contact us to schedule an appointment.