How to Brush Your Teeth- Step By Step Instructions

Prepare Your Toothbrush

 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

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

 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

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

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

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

 

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

 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

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