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How to Brush Your Teeth Properly
Proper tooth brushing involves
four things:
- a soft toothbrush
- toothpaste with fluoride
- the correct brushing angle
- brushing in a pattern
It's important to brush at least twice a day using a soft toothbrush. The
flexible bristles of a soft toothbrush are gentler on the gums and make
it much easier to remove the plaque below the gum line, where periodontal
disease starts.
Use a toothpaste that contains
fluoride. Fluoride hardens the outer enamel layer of the teeth. It might stop a
cavity in its tracks and give you more resistance to future cavities.
Angle the bristles of the brush along the gum line at a 45-degree angle.
Apply firm but gentle pressure so the bristles slide under the gum line.
Move the brush over the entire surface of two or three teeth at a time in
small, circular motions. Allow some overlap as you move to the next teeth. Tilt
the brush and use the tip to brush the backs of the front teeth.
It's fine to brush in any regular pattern you choose, but since the insides
of the teeth tend to get less attention, you might start with the insides of
the upper teeth, then go to the insides of the lower teeth. Switch to the
outsides of the upper teeth, and then the outsides of the lower teeth. Brush
the chewing surfaces of the upper teeth, then the lower teeth. End by gently
brushing your tongue and the roof of your mouth. This removes germs to help
keep your breath fresh.
You may also be interested in:
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Sleep
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Tongue
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The
Proper Flossing Technique
Importance
of Regular Exams
Plaque
Disclosing Tablets
Fluoride
Homecare
for periodontal disease
Dental
superfloss
Preventive
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What
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Nutrition
and Your Health
Dental
Ultrasonic Scaling
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