The Smile Daily

3 Tips for Brushing Your Teeth Like a Dentist

When you were a kid, someone no doubt taught you how to brush your teeth. All the mechanics of how to hold your toothbrush, how much toothpaste to use, and how to rinse your mouth felt new and challenging then.

Over time, brushing your teeth became second nature. Like anything, from driving to signing your name, the newness wore off eventually and you barely had to think about it. Of course, it’s great that you developed a habit. But chances are, your technique could use a little refresher after all these years.

If it’s time to brush up on your routine, check out these three dentist-approved tips for better brushing.

‍1. Hold your toothbrush correctly.

Most dentists agree that tilting your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward your gumline creates the best results. Holding your brush in this position, use small circular or short back-and-forth motions along every surface of your teeth. Don’t skip the hard-to-reach spots, like the back of your front teeth.  

Once you’ve covered each tooth at an angle, brush them all one last time—this time, brushing straight away from the gums. This extra step will remove any lingering debris from between your teeth. Finally, brush your tongue to sweep away bacteria and promote fresh breath.

‍2. Brush for two full minutes.

Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. While two minutes might feel like a long time (especially for children), you need that full time to clean your teeth well. Longer time is not necessarily better, but a little more is better than a little less.  

If you’re not sure how much time you spend brushing your teeth, try timing yourself. Are you cutting your brushing routine short? Keep an eye on the clock for a few days until you get the feel for two minutes again. For kids, try using something more interactive, like a two-minute hourglass from a board game or a fun song.

‍Learn More: Creating Good Dental Routines with Kids

‍3. Replace your toothbrush regularly.

To do any job well, you have to have the right tools. Brushing your teeth is no different. Over time, your toothbrush will become frayed and damaged, making it less effective. It can also begin to harbor bacteria.  

Replace your toothbrush—or toothbrush head if you use an electric brush—every three to four months or more often when you’re sick. If you have trouble remembering to swap out your toothbrush for a fresh one, try setting up a subscription plan or setting a calendar reminder so you never forget.

Of course, a good toothbrushing technique is not the only step in a great oral hygiene routine. Don’t forget to floss once a day and schedule regular hygiene appointments. Also, follow any additional recommendations from your dentist, such as deep cleanings or special mouth rinses.
Have questions about your teeth? We can help. Our friendly dentists and hygienists love helping our patients achieve their happiest, healthiest smiles. We can’t wait to see you in our beautiful Williamsburg office soon!