How to brush your teeth: a step-by-step technique
April 15, 2025
Good brushing is the first barrier against tooth decay and gum disease. It doesn't depend on how long you spend, but on doing it with the right technique and consistency.
Why technique matters
The aim of brushing is to remove bacterial plaque before it mineralises and turns into tartar. Plaque builds up mainly along the gum line and between the teeth; if your brushing doesn’t reach there, it doesn’t matter how many times a day you brush.
Step by step
Always follow the same route so you don’t miss any area:
- Tilt the brush to 45°. Rest the bristles on the boundary between tooth and gum, at an angle of about 45 degrees towards the gum.
- Short, gentle movements. Make small movements, from the gum towards the tooth. Avoid hard, horizontal brushing: it wears down and damages the gum.
- Don’t forget the inner surfaces. The inner face and the chewing surface gather as much plaque as the outer one. Give them the same amount of time.
- Brush your tongue too. The tongue harbours bacteria responsible for bad breath. Run the brush over it when you finish.
What the brush can’t reach
The brush can’t get between one tooth and the next: that’s where dental floss or interdental brushes come in, once a day. Replace your brush every three months, or sooner if the bristles splay out. And remember that no amount of brushing replaces regular professional cleaning.
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How many times a day should you brush?
After every meal, and especially before going to sleep, when saliva production drops and bacteria act more freely.
Manual or electric toothbrush?
Both work if your technique is good. An electric one makes the job easier for anyone with little dexterity or who tends to brush too hard.
