Special Considerations when Brushing

1. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Soft bristles are gentle on your gums and the surface of your implants.

2. Brush gently: Use a circular motion to clean your dental implants and the surrounding gum area.

3. Brush regularly: Brush your implants for at least two minutes twice a day.

4. Use fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride-containing toothpaste can help protect your implants from plaque and bacteria.

Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for the long-term health of your dental implants. If you have any concerns or questions, it’s always a good idea to consult with your dentist or periodontist. They can provide personalised advice and help develop the best maintenance program for you.

1. Rinse off your toothbrush and apply your favourite toothpaste.

2. Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line.

3. Start gently moving the brush in circular motions around your braces and teeth.

4. Clean the front, back, and top of each tooth for two minutes total.

5. Spend about 30 seconds properly brushing each quadrant of your mouth.

6. Slide the brush gently between your brackets.

7. Move the brush up and down on both sides of the brackets.

8. Run the brush along the wires as you move from bracket to bracket.

9. Rinse with water when you are done.

Remember, it’s important to replace your toothbrush regularly, especially when it starts to wear out.

1. Bass or Sulcular Technique:

• Hold the toothbrush parallel to your teeth.
• Tilt the brush to a 45-degree angle.
• Angle the brush so the bristles are slightly under the gumline.
• With firm yet gentle pressure, brush back and forth or use a circular motion 15 to 20 times before moving to the next area.
• Brush all teeth on the outer surface and then clean the backside of the teeth using the same motions.
• Hold the toothbrush in a vertical position behind your front teeth and brush up and down, using the bristles on the toe of the brush.
• Brush the chewing surface of the molars and brush your tongue.

2. Stillman Technique:

This technique is similar to the Bass technique, but instead of circles, you use short horizontal strokes back and forth on all surfaces of the teeth.

3. Charter Technique:

• Your dentist may recommend this method if you have spaces between your teeth, gum recession, exposed roots, or have had periodontal surgery.
• Place the bristles on the gumline at a 45-degree angle, pointing toward the tooth’s chewing surface or crown. This position is the opposite of the Bass and Stillman technique.

In addition to these techniques, it’s recommended to use soft toothbrushes and brush gently. Also, consider using toothpaste made specifically for sensitive teeth. Remember, proper brushing takes at least two minutes. Brushing for longer than two minutes is not harmful as long as you’re using firm but gentle pressure. Using too much pressure can damage enamel and gum tissue, leading to tooth sensitivity and irritated gums.