How To Brush Your Teeth
Posted by Joelseah on May 4, 2009
Went to the dentist today for my routine checks, which isn’t very routine considering this is the third time I’m visiting a dentist for the past 10 years (yes yes.. I’m one of those who never visit the dentist after leaving secondary school). However, I’ve made it a point to visit the dentist every 6 months since last year =)
My teeth aren’t exactly in terrible shape, though they’re not in tip top condition either. So in a bid to ensure I don’t need unnecessary trips to the dentist and waste more money, I’ve decided to start brushing my teeth properly! *Applause!
Okie anyway, here are some tips on brushing teeth that I found. Figured I’ll share this with everyone in case you guys are facing similar problems.
Step 1: Prepare your toothbrush. Moisten your toothbrush with water and apply a thin strip of toothpaste. Try to choose one that contains fluoride.
Step 2: Start in the back. Start with your upper molars (back teeth) on your left side and work in a clockwise direction. Point the bristles toward the gumline, in a 45 degree angle. Use a short circular motion for approximately 20 seconds.
Step 3: Roll away. After 20 seconds, roll the brush head away from the gumline, so the bristles sweep the surface of the tooth, removing the food and plaque.
Step 4: Work in a clockwise direction. Continue working in a clockwise direction, ending with the lower molars on your left side. Repeat step two and three for the inside surface of the upper and lower molars.
Step 5: Brush the back surface of the upper front teeth. Brush the lingual (back) surface of the upper-front teeth by using the tip of the toothbrush head. Direct the bristles toward the gumline, and use a flicking motion down the surface of the tooth. Do this 2 to 3 times.
Step 6: Brush the back of the lower front teeth. Point the bristles of the tip of the toothbrush toward the gumline. Flick the bristles up, away from the gumline in a sweeping motion. Do this 2 to 3 times.
Step 7: Brush the biting surface. Brush the biting surface of the upper and lower premolars and molars, using a circular motion.
Step 8: Finish with rinse. Finish by rinsing with either water or your choice of mouthwash.
