The Best Way to Brush Your Teeth
Are you confused about the best way to brush your teeth? If so, you are not alone. There are a lot of different opinions out there; all of which profess to have the right method. Between insurance organizations, toothbrush and toothpaste companies, dental associations, text books and more, there is never a lack of ideas or methods to try.
“What I feel we need is better research into what the easiest to learn and most effective and safest way to brush is. For something most people do twice a day, you would expect…a clearer, more unified message.”
-John Wainwright, DDS
According to a recent study, the most commonly recommended technique involves gently jiggling the brush back and forth in small motions; with the intention of shaking loose any food particles, plaque and bacteria. However, there is speculation as to whether or not that is the best method.
Despite all of the confusion, here are a few tips that can help keep your smile bright and your mouth healthy.
1. Choose the Right Tool
Think about the size of your brush, do you have to strain to open wide enough to brush your teeth? If so, it is probably too big. You want your brush to feel good in your hand and your mouth.
Know your bristles. If they are too stiff, they could hurt your gums. The American Dental Association recommends a soft brush.
Electric or Manual? This is an individual preference. Electric toothbrushes can make it easier to do a better job, especially if you have arthritis or other trouble with your hands, arms or shoulders.
2. Time it Right and Don’t Overdo It
It is recommended that your brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes. Most people fall short of this time. Try dividing your mouth into four quadrants and spend 30 seconds in each section. Be gentle. It doesn’t take a lot of force to remove plaque.
3. Switch Things Up
Do you always begin brushing in the same place? Dentists say most of us do. By the time you get to the last area of your mouth, you may be bored. Try starting in different places and keep track of where you are going and where you have been so that you make it to every surface.
4. Pick Products Wisely
The kind of toothpaste you use matters. Recently, the ADA addressed the concerns about triclosan in Colgate Total, a highly recommended toothpaste. Triclosan is the antibacterial, active ingredient that fights plaque and gingivitis. It is currently the only ADA-Accepted toothpaste which contains it. In a recent statement the ADA said, “…at this time there is no clinically relevant scientific evidence indicating the Seal (ADA Seal-Accepted) should be removed from the Colgate Total product.”
5. Keep It Clean
Do you always rinse your brush? You should. Germs from your mouth and teeth can stay on it if you don’t. It will also get rid of leftover toothpaste that can harden bristles. You shouldn’t use a disinfectant to cleanse your toothbrush. Just rinse it and let it air dry. Don’t put it in a case where it will stay damp for a long time. Also, be mindful of storing your brush in close proximity to the toilet or sink, where it can be exposed to germs.
6. Let It Go
How old is your toothbrush? The ADA suggests you get a new brush every 3 or 4 months. Frayed or broken bristles won’t clean your teeth as well and could damage your gums.
For more information, see the study in the British Dental Journal, 2217, ES (2014)
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