Tooth Brushing is the act of scrubbing teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
Toothbrush cleans only two-thirds of the mouth. So interdental brushes are needed to maintain oral hygiene. Brushing teeth helps to prevent gum problems and cavities which causes at least one-third of loss of teeth. Poor dental health is proved to be associated with heart disease and shortened life expectancy.
The objectives of Toothbrush: The toothbrush is the most effective weapon in the removal of plaque and food debris
- To clean teeth and interdental spaces of food remnants, debris and stain etc
- To prevent plaque formation
- To disturb and remove plaque
- To stimulate and massage gingival tissue
- To clean the tongue
Types of toothbrush:
- Manual toothbrushes
- Powered toothbrushes
Manual Toothbrush: The ideal characteristics of a toothbrush can be listed as follows:
- It should be according to an individual patient's requirement in size, shape and texture
- It should be easily and effectively manipulated
- It should be readily cleaned and aerated, impervious to moisture
- It should be durable and inexpensive
- Designed for utility efficiency and cleanliness
The proper brushing technique is:
- Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.
- Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes
- Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth
- To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes
Brushing your teeth is only a part of a complete dental care routine. You should also make sure to:
- Clean between teeth daily with floss. Tooth decay-causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. This helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.