The Right Way to Brush Your Teeth: Are You Doing It Correctly?

I ask patients this question all the time: “What do you use to brush your teeth, how and when?” Most people answer twice a day but don’t know what type of toothbrush they have. Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Brushing your teeth is something we’ve all done since childhood, but very few people actually do it the right way. I was also doing it in a wrong before dental school.

So let’s break it down step by step.

1. Pick the Right Brush

• Soft bristles are best. Hard bristles may feel like they’re scrubbing better, but they can actually damage your enamel and gums. Would you use a hard brush to clean your face? so why would it be okay for your gums?
• Size matters. A brush head that’s too big won’t reach those tricky spots in the back.

(And if you’re using an electric toothbrush—bonus points. They do a lot of the work for you.)

2. Two Minutes, Twice a Day

Most people brush for about 30–40 seconds. That’s not nearly enough. You need a full two minutes to do the job properly—30 seconds for each quadrant of your mouth. Set a timer or play your favorite short song to keep yourself honest. Most of the new electric toothbrushes come with a timer. I admit that I had the “not happy” smiley face the first time I used it, oops.

3. The Right Angle and Motion

Here’s where most people go wrong:

• Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle toward your gumline.
• Use gentle, circular motions—not harsh back-and-forth scrubbing.
• Think of it like massaging your teeth and gums, not scrubbing a dirty pan.

4. Don’t Forget the Forgotten Spots

• The back of your front teeth (top and bottom) often get skipped—tilt your brush vertically to get in there.
• The tongue and roof of your mouth also need attention—this helps keep your breath fresh.

5. The Right Toothpaste

Not all toothpastes are created equal. Look for one with fluoride, which strengthens enamel and protects against cavities. And remember: more foam doesn’t mean more clean! A pea-sized amount is enough.

6. Rinse the Brush, Not Your Mouth

After brushing, just spit out the excess toothpaste. Don’t rinse with water right away—it washes away the protective fluoride layer you just brushed on. If you don’t feel like not rinsing your mouth right away, rinse and use a fluoridated mouthwash (that what I do).

Final Thoughts

Brushing is simple—but when done correctly, it’s one of the most powerful tools you have for keeping your teeth healthy for life. Pair it with daily flossing and regular dental visits, and you’ve got yourself a winning routine.

So… are you brushing correctly? If you’re unsure, don’t worry—I’d be happy to show you the right technique at your next appointment. Sometimes, a quick demonstration makes all the difference.