Brush up on your technique
Regular brushing (and daily flossing) is key to a healthy smile. But are you doing it right? Check out these tips for choosing, using and storing your toothbrush.
BRUSH UP ON A FEW SKILLS
1. Brush twice a day for two minutes. This helps remove cavity-causing plaque.
2. Brush the whole tooth, not just the top and front surfaces.
3. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. This method (rather than angling your brush flat against the teeth) may help remove more plaque from the gumline.
4. Use a soft-bristled brush. Hard bristles may harm the gums.
5. Store your rinsed toothbrush upright. This helps keep it clean and dry.
Reviewed 9/16/2024
Sources
- American Dental Association. “Toothbrushes.” https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/toothbrushes.
- Journal of the American Dental Association. “Keeping Your Smile Healthy.” https://jada.ada.org/article/S0002-8177(21)00483-9/fulltext.
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