How to Brush Correctly

The importance of brushing
The single best way to remove harmful plaque - a thin, sticky film of bacteria from teeth and gums — is to brush teeth regularly and properly.

What Is the Right Way to Brush?

Proper brushing takes at least two minutes — that's right, 120 seconds! Most adults do not come close to brushing that long. To get a feel for the time involved, try using a stopwatch. To properly brush your teeth, use short, gentle strokes, paying extra attention to the gumline, hard-to-reach back teeth, and areas around fillings, crowns or other restoration. Concentrate on thoroughly cleaning each section as follows:

	Tilt the brush at a 45° angle against the gumline and sweep or roll the brush away from the gumline.
	Gently brush the outside, inside and chewing surface of each tooth using short back-and-forth strokes.Clean the outer surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth.
	Clean the inner surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth.
	Clean the chewing surfaces.
	For fresher breath, be sure to brush your tongue, too.