How to Brush 

How to brush

Often taken for granted, the monotonous task of brushing and flossing our teeth daily has never been more important in order to avoid gum disease and the risks gum disease can place on our overall health. Gum disease, which has been linked to serious of health complications and causes various dental problems that are often avoidable. 

• Start with the upper left molars (back teeth) concentrating on the front surface of the tooth – you will be working in a clockwise direction from there. The average toothbrush head will cover 2 to 3 teeth at a time.

• Hold the toothbrush parallel to your teeth, and point the bristles in the direction of the gum, so they are resting slightly below the gum line. Apply slight pressure to the bristles so they are slightly bent.

• Gently move the brush in a circular motion for approximately 20 brush strokes, or roughly 10 seconds. When brush strokes are complete, roll the bristles away from the gum tissue in a sweeping motion.

• Continue the above steps until all of the front surfaces of the top and bottom teeth have been cleaned. 

• Moving on to the inside surfaces of the teeth, repeat steps 2 to 5 for the upper and lower premolars and molars. 

• When you are ready to clean the inside surface of the front teeth, take the tip of the toothbrush, and in a flicking motion, direct the toothbrush from the gum line down. Do this 2 to 3 times. 

• Follow step 8 for the inside of the lower front teeth, but this time the flick will be directed up, and again away from the gum line. Do this 2 to 3 times. 

• Brush the biting surface of the upper and lower premolars and molars in a back and forth motion.

• Gently brush your tongue and the inside of your cheeks.

• Finish by rinsing with water.