Brushing

Why is brushing important?

Daily tooth brushing is important because it removes plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gumline. If not removed, plaque can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

How often should I brush my teeth?

Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, last thing at night (or before bedtime) and on one other occasion throughout the day, preferably in the morning.

Remember to replace your toothbrush every two to three months or when the bristles become frayed. Old, worn-out toothbrushes don’t clean your teeth properly and they can damage your gums.

If if brushing is uncomfortable or you’re gums bleeding whilst brushing, it is usually a sign of gum disease. Don’t avoid the bleeding areas. Instead, continue to gently brush the areas, and the bleeding should improve within a few days.

What is the proper tooth brushing technique?

Don’t feel like reading all this? Look below to find short, 2-minute videos that explain how to use manual and electric toothbrushes.

• Two Minute Brushing: Brush for approximately two minutes to thoroughly clean your teeth and gums. You can use a timer or play a favourite song to help with timing!
• Positioning: Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards your gumline.
• Gentle Circular Motions: Use short, gentle circular motions to brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. Pay extra attention to the gumline, where plaque tends to accumulate.
• Brush All Surfaces: Brush all the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of your teeth. To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, it can help to tilt the brush vertically and make several small circular strokes with the toe (the front part) of the brush.
• Spit, Don’t Rise: After brushing your teeth, spit out the toothpaste rather than rinsing it out with water to get the most benefit from your fluoride toothpaste and prevent dental decay.
• Bleeding: Bleeding gums are usually a sign of gum disease. If your gums bleed while brushing, don’t avoid the bleeding areas. Instead, continue to gently brush the areas, and the bleeding should improve within a few days.
• Don’t Forget Your Tongue: Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

What type of toothbrush should I use?

For adults, choose a toothbrush with a small-to-medium head and medium texture bristles. This size helps reach all areas of the mouth, including the back. Children should use a smaller head with the same medium bristles.

If you are finding it difficult to brush your tooth, there are different types of toothbrushes that can help you. For sensitive teeth, use softer bristles. Smaller heads are available for crooked or crowded teeth, and larger handles or angled heads can aid those with grip issues.

Electric toothbrushes are also effective if you follow specific instructions for their use. If you are not sure if your toothbrush is suitable, your dentist or dental hygienist can recommend a toothbrush.

What type of toothpaste should I use?

When choosing toothpaste, select one with 1350 to 1500 ppm fluoride (look on the packaging) to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Nearly all widely available family toothpastes contain 1350 to 1500 ppm fluoride.

Children can also use family toothpastes, there’s no need to buy special children’s toothpaste.

Sometimes your dentist will prescribe you toothpaste with a higher fluoride concentration. Always use the toothpaste prescribed by your dentist to reduce your risk of caries.

After brushing your teeth, spit out the toothpaste rather than rinsing with water, to avoid diluting the fluoride concentration, and ensure that you can the most benefit.

Additional tips for optimal tooth brushing

Consider these tips to enhance your tooth brushing routine:

1. Technique Matters: Focus on quality, not just quantity. Brushing properly for two minutes is more effective than five minutes of incorrect brushing.
2. Gentle is Key: Brushing too hard can damage your tooth enamel and gums. Apply gentle pressure and let the bristles do the work.
3. Don’t Share Toothbrushes: Sharing toothbrushes can spread bacteria and increase the risk of oral infections. Stick to using your own toothbrush.
4. Brushing Alone Isn’t Enough: Remember to clean between your teeth daily and rinse with mouthwash to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth and along the gumline.

Congratulations! You’ve completed the brushing guide. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist.