How To Brush Your Teeth Properly

By: Amber Gilani

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Even though you've probably been brushing your teeth since you were a toddler, you probably don't know how to brush your teeth properly. It is important to know how to brush your teeth properly, as it can keep your teeth clean and prevent diseases such as gingivitis or plaque.

To brush your teeth properly, you will need:

  • A toothbrush
  • Fluoride Toothpaste
  • Dental floss (optional)
  1. Though optional, the use of dental floss is highly recommended. Before brushing your teeth, you should clean them with dental floss - which removes bits of food that can't be removed by a toothbrush.
  2. After flossing, moisten the bristles of your toothbrush and apply a thin layer of toothpaste. It is recommended that you use a fluoridated toothpaste, as it helps clean the teeth better. However, fluoride is harmful is swallowed, which is why care should be taken to ensure that you do not accidentally swallow any.
  3. Start at the molars (back teeth) and brush using short back and forth motions. Spend a good twenty seconds brushing each part of your teeth, and it is especially important for you to brush the gumline. 
  4. After this, brush the back of the teeth. Often, these are ignored which can cause unwanted bacteria and cavities. If your mouth becomes full of toothpaste, spit to rid any excess and continue brushing.
  5. After brushing the teeth, gently brush your tongue. Some toothbrushes have a tongue scrubber attached to the back of their heads, which serves this purpose. Brushing the tongue is important if you want to rid your mouth of bad breath.
Posted on: Dec. 02, 2010