What's the best way to brush your teeth?
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M$2 Answers
Im sure there is more and if i think of any i will let you know. The Brand of toothpaste does not really matter, they all seem to be pretty much the same. Colgate total has an antibacterial and antifungal in it (Triclosan), so that may or may not be something you want. I use it, only because i got a free tube, but i prefer aquafresh (cheapest and tastes the best) Make sure your toothbrush has fluoride in it.
• Modified Bass method — A modified Bass method combines the circular Bass with a rolling sweep. The toothbrush, again at 45 degrees to the gingiva, is carefully vibrated, using shortened strokes on the tissues to remove the plaque, ending with an up-sweep stroke toward the tooth's occlusal surface. This method must be repeated throughout the mouth, using the same placement, vibratory action and rolling sweep motion to complete a brushing session.
A potential disadvantage to the Bass method is the patient who haphazardly brushes or is overly aggressive. This method could easily degenerate into a scrub brush motion, causing unwanted trauma to the tissue margins. Generally, patients need good dexterity to accomplish the stroke and sweep effectively, so patient selection must be considered. Ideally, open interproximal spacing, exposed root surfaces or reduced height enamel would benefit from this gentle sweeping circle.
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M$
-brushing up and down is recommended, though my dentist recommends the 3D electronic tooth brush, which vibrates and turns in a circular motion.
-sideways is a no no
I think in terms of overall mouth hygene one must additionally:
Brush your mouth as well
-in between both sets of lips and gums
-roof and base of your mouth
-AND tongue
Floss, floss, floss, did I say floss?
Use mouthwash, with little alcohol content. The alcohol isn't supposed to be good for your teeth.
Last but not least, use a tongue scraper, a good one, not the dinky little ones.
The reason why I recommend cleaning your entire mouth is bacteria isn't only on the teeth. They actually reside in your entire mouth.
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M$
Some studies show circular motion toothbrushes are better at removing supragingival plaque (plaque on the tooth surface), but may lead to more gingival recession, which exposes the roots. I use a sonicar, i love it, but it was also free for me. If you can afford a expensive electronic brush then consider that, if you cant then dont waste your money because manual brushing if done proficiently is equally effective. And yes, floss once a day.
nice and informative, thanks
This is interesting, thanks- so "Generally, patients need good dexterity to accomplish the stroke and sweep effectively, so patient selection must be considered. Ideally, open interproximal spacing, exposed root surfaces or reduced height enamel would benefit from this gentle sweeping circle." means the dentist should recommend what type of brushing is best based on your teeth, right?
Exactly. You stated it much better than i could have. Generally, a dentist should determine the abilities of the patient and the individual cases each patient presents. Periodontal patients who have undergone surgery need special techniques and brushes to accomplish this. Likewise, a child should just use scrub brush because they are lacking their manual dexterity and therefore scrub brush will be most efficient. As the patient gets older, new techniques should be taught. Mentally and physically compromised patients are good candidates for electronic tooth brushes or lazy people like myself =)