Brushing Techniques and Tips for Proper Dental Care

Gum disease and other oral health issues can be prevented and controlled by regular and proper brushing of the teeth. Unfortunately, a good majority of adults still don’t know the proper way to brush their teeth.

Proper brushing goes beyond just brushing the teeth’s surface and enamel. Other areas, such as under and around the gum line where plaque and bacteria accumulate, will also need to be brushed. For the best advice, ask your dentist or contact a reputable family dental practice like Sherwood Park Dental Practice.

In this article, we shall be taking a look at three of the conventional brushing techniques that dental professionals encourage people to use it order to ensure proper dental care. These techniques are;

Bass or Sulcular Technique

The Bass or sulcular brushing technique involves using bristles in the toothbrush to scrub off dental plaque, commonly called biofilm, from under your gums before gingivitis can occur. A 2018 systemic analysis and review of various brushing methods found that the Bass technique of brushing was the most efficient in reducing dental plaque and gingivitis compared to the horizontal method.

How to carry out the bass technique:

• Start by holding your toothbrush parallel to your teeth.
• Tilt the toothbrush to a 45° angle or so that the bristles are slightly below the gum line.
• Using firm yet mild pressure, brush using a circular motion 15-20 times before shifting to the next area or just simply brush back and forth.
• Brush all the teeth on both the inner and outer surfaces using the same motion.
• Position the brush in a vertical position at the back of your front teeth, then brush up and down with the bristles located on the toe of your toothbrush.
• Clean the chewing surface of your molars with a toothbrush and gently brush your tongue.

Stillman’s Brushing Method

This method is recommended by dentists for patients with gingivitis. This technique is quite effective for the removal of dental plaque from above the gum line.

Method/Technique: the brush’s bristles should be positioned at a 45-degree angle toward your gum line. One-half of the brush’s bristles should cover the gums, while the other half should be positioned on the tooth surface. By applying short and light horizontal motions, the plaque is dislodged from above your gum line. These movements help to remove dental plaque and stimulate your gums. This technique only allows small groups of teeth to be cleaned at a time.

Charter Technique

Your dentist may advise using the Charter technique if you have gum recession, exposed roots, spaces between your teeth, or whether you’ve had periodontal surgery. This technique is also beneficial if you have fixed dentures or any orthodontic appliance.

For the charter technique:

Place the brush’s bristles on your gum line at a 45° angle, pointing in the direction of the tooth’s crown or chewing surface. This position is the reverse of the Stillman and Bass technique.

• Gently vibrate the toothbrush for 15-20 counts, using little back-and-forth motion or short circular strokes.
• Brush all your teeth using a similar pattern, brushing on all tooth sides and surfaces and don’t forget your tongue and the
• roof of your mouth

After making use of any of the above brushing techniques, you can also keep your teeth healthy with the following tips:

• Maintain good oral hygiene practices like brushing your teeth thoroughly two times a day and flossing at least once daily to remove dental plaque.
• Visit your dentist for checkups and cleaning at least twice a year, even if you don’t have any natural teeth remaining or have dentures.
• Avoid smoking and all tobacco products.
• Limit your alcohol consumption.
• Consider using antibacterial mouthwash every day.
• Limit your intake of sugary foods and starches.
• Eat vegetables and fruits.
• R
• eplace your toothbrush every 3-6 months or at any sign of wear.
• Stay hydrated.

Conclusion

Proper brushing and cleaning are crucial for keeping your teeth and mouth in the best condition. Also, do keep in mind that the best dental care routine is one that is practised consistently. If you have special needs, be sure to talk to your dentist about designing a personalised oral health care regimen to suit those needs.