Wednesday, August 13th, 2025
Brushing your teeth is something you’ve likely done thousands of times. But here’s a question many Canadians never think to ask—am I brushing the right way? While it might seem simple, proper brushing technique is more than just a quick swipe with a toothbrush. It’s a crucial part of maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing issues like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Whether you’re brushing your teeth or teaching your kids how to do it, taking a few minutes to learn the right approach can make a big difference in your oral health. Let’s break down the most effective way to brush your teeth, step by step.
Brushing your teeth removes plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth throughout the day. If not removed regularly, plaque can harden into tartar, irritate your gums, and lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
Even if you brush twice a day, using the wrong technique can leave plaque behind, especially around the gumline and in hard-to-reach areas. That’s why learning the correct method is essential.
The Canadian Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time—once in the morning and once before bed. Brushing at night is especially important, as it removes food particles and bacteria that have built up throughout the day. Brushing more than twice daily is generally unnecessary and could even damage enamel or gums if done too aggressively.
Before you begin, make sure you’re using the right tools:
Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. This allows the bristles to reach both the surface of your teeth and the gumline, where plaque tends to accumulate.
Avoid harsh scrubbing or back-and-forth motions. Instead, use small, gentle circles or short strokes. This technique is more effective at removing plaque and less likely to harm your gums or enamel.
Make sure to brush every surface of every tooth:
Take your time—don’t rush the process. Brushing should take about two minutes in total.
The area where your teeth meet your gums is one of the most important and most overlooked spots to clean. Plaque builds up here easily, and if left unchecked, can cause gum inflammation and bleeding.
Ensure your brush gently sweeps across this area with each stroke.
Your tongue can harbour bacteria that contribute to bad breath and a coated feeling in your mouth. After brushing your teeth, gently brush your tongue from back to front or use a tongue scraper to keep your mouth fresher.
Even with the best intentions, many people make minor mistakes that compromise the effectiveness of their brushing. Here are a few to watch out for:
Also read: Benefits of Having Straight Teeth
While it may seem like a good idea to brush after every meal, it’s not always necessary—and in some cases, it can be harmful. After eating acidic foods or drinks (such as citrus fruits or soda), brushing too soon can spread the acid and erode your enamel. Instead, rinse with water after eating and wait about 30 minutes before brushing if you’ve consumed anything acidic.
Brushing alone isn’t enough to maintain full oral health. To complete your daily routine, be sure to:
Together, these habits form a complete approach to caring for your teeth and gums.
Brushing your teeth the right way isn’t complicated—but doing it consistently and correctly is what protects your teeth for life. By using the proper technique, the right tools, and a mindful approach, you can significantly reduce your risk of cavities, gum disease, and costly dental treatments. For any dental problem, Book your appointment at Brookmere Dental Group today.
