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.
OBJECTIVES OF TOOTH BRUSHING
The tooth brush 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 TOOTH BRUSH
The ideal characteristics of a tooth brush can be listed as follows:-
- It should confirm to individual patient 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 to:
- 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.
