Brush Better, Not Harder

Dental plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. Removing plaque through daily dental care, such as brushing and flossing between your teeth, helps prevent it from hardening into tartar, also called calculus.  This can reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. A healthy mouth also contributes to overall health.

Brushing your teeth is the primary method to prevent dental plaque buildup. According to the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, brushing removes 60 percent of harmful plaque. But many of us may be brushing harder rather than brushing properly to maintain good oral health.

Brushing Harder Is NOT the Same as Brushing Better

Brushing too hard or incorrectly can wear away tooth structure near the gumline, damage tooth enamel, and irritate the gums, potentially leading to gum recession and sensitivity. By following proper toothbrushing techniques, you can safely remove dental plaque and protect tooth enamel and gums for a healthy mouth.

Start With a Soft-Bristle Toothbrush

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends using a soft-bristle toothbrush to effectively remove plaque while protecting your tooth enamel and gum tissues from damage. The ADA also recommends replacing it every three months. A toothbrush with new bristles is more effective at removing dental plaque than a toothbrush with frayed or worn bristles.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Many toothpastes contain mild ingredients that help improve oral health by removing food debris and reducing plaque and tartar buildup. They may also contain fluoride, a mineral that helps fight cavities by strengthening enamel and supporting remineralization of early tooth decay.

Follow Recommended Toothbrushing Techniques

How you brush and how often you brush play a big part in maintaining good oral health and avoiding damage to tooth enamel and gums. It is important to note that there is more than one effective brushing technique. The best brushing method may depend on the following:

• The position of your teeth.
• The health of your gums.
• If you wear braces.
• If you have dental treatment.
• Have trouble holding a toothbrush.

Speak with your dentist to demonstrate which brushing method is best for your mouth. In general, most dentists or hygienists recommend the following proper toothbrushing techniques.

• Place the toothbrush next to your teeth, with the bristles angled at 45 degrees toward the gumline, with the bristles touching both the teeth and the gumline.
• Using gentle pressure, brush back and forth using short, tooth-wide strokes. Use vertical strokes to brush the inner surfaces of the front teeth. Thoroughly brush the outside, inside, and the chewing surfaces of each tooth. Remember to brush the backmost teeth in the mouth. Gently brush your tongue as well. Watch the video on how to brush your teeth.
• Gently brush around and slightly under the gumline. Spaces between the teeth and gumline are places where plaque can accumulate. This also contributes to better gum health.

Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day for Two Minutes

When you brush only once daily, you allow dental plaque to accumulate on tooth surfaces and along the gumline, where it can remain for about 24 hours until your next brushing. Many dentists recommend brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes each. Brushing for a full two minutes can effectively remove more plaque than a quick 45-second brushing.

Plaque that remains on teeth for prolonged periods of time can harden into tartar.  Unlike dental plaque, which can be removed through daily brushing, tartar can only be removed by a dental professional.

Oral Health Benefits of Brushing Better

By practicing proper brushing techniques, you can effectively control plaque buildup, protect your gums from irritation, and protect your tooth enamel from excessive wear for a bright, healthy smile. Besides brushing your teeth at home, remember to schedule regular dental visits for an exam and professional cleaning.