The Correct Brushing Techniques

DENTAL MATTERS

The recommended sequence for brushing is to start brushing from facial side of molar to molar of one arch and then shift to the opposite arch, after that the inside surface of the tooth are to be cleaned. The last surfaces to be cleaned are the bite surface. The length of time depends on patient's adaptability but it is advised to clean your teeth within 3-5 minutes once adapted with the right technique.

Brushing to most of us has become a subconscious habit. We wake up, go through our motions and brush accordingly without paying much attention. Maintaining oral hygiene is not only about getting the right tooth brush and tooth paste and rubbing your teeth with it but a set of dedicated exercises that one needs to do in a correct manner.

There are various brushing techniques and experts recommend them according to one's need. However, the most commonly advised techniques are

Bass (Sulcular) Technique

The aim with this method is to remove plaque from below the gum line. This method is ideal for regular maintenance of your teeth

Technique: Hold bristles at 45 degree angle towards gum line. The bristles should be place just above the gumline. Slight pressure and vibratory motions will make sure the bristles go slightly beneath the gum line, which maximizes the extraction and removal of bacteria. Only small groups of teeth can be done at any one time.

Stillman's Technique

This method provides gum massage and stimulation along with plaque and debris removal. It is beneficial for someone with spongy and inflamed gums.

Technique: Angle the bristles at 45 degrees toward the gum line. The bristles should be half on the gums and half on the tooth's surface. By making short, light horizontal movements, the plaque is removed from above the gum line.

Both the above techniques require patience as it concentrates on cleaning few teeth at a time, which is ideal. These techniques can be modified by adding a sweeping motion from the gum line towards the tooth's tip

Charter's Technique

This method is useful for patients with orthodontic braces or any fixed prosthesis.

Technique: Position the bristles at a 45 degree angle towards the tip of the tooth and direct them so they remove plaque from the brackets and arch wire or the fixed prosthesis. Then change direction so the bristles remove plaque from below the brackets and arch wire or the fixed prosthesis.

Fones Technique

This technique is recommend for children

Technique: Ask the child to bite and place the brush against a set of teeth and move it in a circular direction 4-5 times. Then move to the next set of teeth, until all the teeth are covered.It requires minimum manual dexterity.

The recommended sequence for brushing is to start brushing from facial side of molar to molar of one arch and then shift to the opposite arch, after that the inside surface of the tooth are to be cleaned. The last surfaces to be cleaned are the bite surface. The length of time depends on patient's adaptability but it is advised to clean your teeth within 3-5 minutes once adapted with the right technique.

Teeth are not the only thing that needs to be cleaned while brushing; the roof of your mouth, the cheeks and the tongue should also be cleaned as they also hold on to deposits.

Next time you visit your dentist, feel free to discuss and ask the correct brushing technique for your need.

Dr Swagat Pranam Sharma

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