How to brush teeth

How to Brush

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:

• 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

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.	Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

What Type of Toothbrush Should I Use?
Most dental professionals agree that a soft-bristled brush is best for removing plaque and debris from your teeth. Small-headed brushes are also preferable, since they can better reach all areas of the mouth, including hard-to-reach back teeth. For many, a powered toothbrush is a good alternative. It can do a better job of cleaning teeth, particularly for those who have difficulty brushing or who have limited manual dexterity. To find the right Colgate toothbrush for you, .

How Important is the Toothpaste I Use?
It is important that you use a toothpaste that's right for you. Today there is a wide variety of toothpaste designed for many conditions, including cavities, gingivitis, tartar, stained teeth and sensitivity. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist which toothpaste is right for you. To find the right Colgate toothpaste for you.

How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?
You should replace your toothbrush when it begins to show wear, or every three months, whichever comes first. It is also very important to change toothbrushes after you've had a cold, since the bristles can collect germs that can lead to reinfection.

http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/Oral-and-Dental-Health-Basics/Oral-Hygiene/Brushing-and-Flossing/article/How-to-Brush.cvsp

How to Brush Your Teeth- Step By Step Instructions

After flossing, moisten your toothbrush with water and apply a thin strip of toothpaste. Try to choose one that contains fluoride.

Start in the Back

Photo © Shawn Marie Watson

Start with your upper molars (back teeth) on your left side and work in a clockwise direction.

Point the bristles toward the gumline, in a 45-degree angle. Use a short circular motion for approximately 20 seconds.

Roll Away

Photo © Shawn Marie Watson

After 20 seconds, roll the brush head away from the gumline, so the bristles sweep the surface of the tooth, removing the food and plaque.

Work in a Clockwise Direction

Photo © Shawn Marie Watson

Continue working in a clockwise direction, ending with the lower molars on your left side. Repeat step two and three for the inside surface of the upper and lower molars.

Brushing the Back Surface of the Upper Front Teeth

Photo © Shawn Marie Watson

Brush the lingual (back) surface of the upper-front teeth by using the tip of the toothbrush head. Direct the bristles toward the gumline, and use a flicking motion down the surface of the tooth. Do this 2 to 3 times.

Brushing the Back of the Lower Front Teeth

Photo © Shawn Marie Watson

Point the bristles of the tip of the toothbrush toward the gumline. Flick the bristles up, away from the gumline in a sweeping motion. Do this 2 to 3 times.

Brush the Biting Surface

Photo © Shawn Marie Watson

Brush the biting surface of the upper and lower premolars and molars, using a circular motion.

Brush Your Tongue and the Inside of Your Cheeks

Photo © Shawn Marie Watson

Using a gentle circular motion, brush your tongue for 30 seconds and the inside of your cheeks for 30 seconds.

Finish Up With a Rinse

Photo © Shawn Marie Watson

Finish by rinsing with either water or your choice of mouthwash. Don't forget to smile!

http://dentistry.about.com/od/basicdentalcare/ss/simplybrush.htm