Oral hygiene: Why you should hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums

All of us are taught to brush our teeth twice daily to maintain oral hygiene and good dental health. However, many of us still face dental issues after brushing daily — that is because while brushing our teeth is necessary, doing so correctly is also important.

Dr R R Dutta, HOD, internal medicine, Paras Gurugram said, “The correct way to brush your teeth is often overlooked but crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. It involves holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and using gentle, circular motions to clean all tooth surfaces thoroughly.”

Agreed Dr Amit Sachdeva, Dentex Dental Care, and said that angling the toothbrush at 45 degrees along the gum line offers a two-pronged benefit for optimal oral hygiene. “First, it allows the bristles to effectively reach beneath the gum tissue, where plaque and bacteria can accumulate and contribute to gum disease. This gentle subgingival cleaning helps remove harmful biofilms at their source. Second, the angled position ensures the bristles contact both the tooth surface and the gum tissue, promoting a more thorough cleaning and reducing the risk of damaging the gums if brushing with a straight-on approach. This technique, along with soft bristles and gentle pressure, helps maintain healthy teeth and gums,” he told indianexpress.com.

 

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Things to consider while brushing your teeth

Dr Dutta mentioned, “When brushing your teeth, it’s essential to choose a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your enamel and gums.”

He further added dedicating at least two minutes to brushing and ensuring you reach all areas of your mouth, including the often-neglected inner surfaces of teeth and the tongue, is imperative for a comprehensive clean.

Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and using gentle, circular motions to clean all tooth surfaces thoroughly. (Soure- Freepik)

What common mistakes do people make when brushing their teeth?

“Many individuals make the mistake of applying too much pressure while brushing, which can harm the delicate gum tissue and lead to gum recession”, Dr Dutta said.

According to Dr Dutta, neglecting to brush along the gum line is another common error, as bacteria tend to accumulate there, contributing to gum disease and tooth decay.

Dr Dutta shared, that improper brushing techniques can wreak havoc on your oral health. Aggressive brushing not only wears down enamel but also increases the risk of gum disease by causing inflammation and recession of the gums. This, in turn, creates pockets where bacteria thrive, leading to decay and potential tooth loss if left unchecked.”

Visiting dentist for professional cleanings?

Dr Dutta suggests, “Regular visits to the dentist for professional cleanings are paramount in maintaining oral health. While at-home care is crucial, professional cleanings twice a year provide a deep clean that removes plaque and tartar buildup, significantly reducing the risk of gum disease and cavities.”

Think of it as a necessary complement to your daily oral hygiene routine, ensuring your smile stays bright and healthy for years to come, Dr Dutta said.

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