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Proper brushing
techniques include:
-
A soft toothbrush.
It's important to
brush at least
twice a day using a soft toothbrush. A soft toothbrush also
facilitates
much easier removal of plaque below the gumline, where periodontal
disease starts.
-
Toothpaste with fluoride.
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.
-
The correct brushing angle.
Tilt
the bristles of the brush along the gumline at a 45-degree angle and apply
firm pressure so the bristles slide under the gumline. Vibrate the brush
while you move it in short back and forth strokes and in small circular
motions. Brush two or three teeth at a time, then move to the next teeth,
allowing some overlap.
-
Brushing in a pattern.
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
and end by gently brushing your tongue and the roof of your mouth. This
removes germs and keeps your breath fresh.
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