The Best Dentist in the World
At Studio Mura, we like to say that the best dentist in the world is your toothbrush, because brushing your teeth properly is essential for preventing and caring for both your gums and teeth.
And let’s make one thing clear right away: you brush your teeth, but you massage your gums.
In the photo: a Studio Mura toothbrush on a bronze table by artist Gaetano Pompa.
But how exactly do you brush your teeth and massage your gums?
It may seem like a simple question, but at Studio Mura, we make it a priority to give each patient personalized instructions and provide the right tools - such as appropriate toothbrushes and toothpaste - for effective at-home oral hygiene.
Here, we share some general techniques that we deeply value at Studio Mura:
When brushing, the bristles of your toothbrush should rest at a 45-degree angle where the tooth meets the gumline. Use GENTLE, tiny circular motions to clean the teeth. Brushing gently helps prevent trauma or abrasion to the enamel, tooth roots, and most importantly, the gums.
6 Tips for Brushing Teeth and Massaging Gums
- Rinse before brushing. After each meal, rinse your mouth thoroughly before brushing to remove acidic residues (like orange juice) that could contribute to enamel demineralization if you brush immediately.
- Choose a toothbrush with soft or medium bristles to protect your gums and enamel. Your dentist or dental hygienist can recommend the most suitable toothbrush for your oral and gum health.
- Brush gently with a 45-degree angle. Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle between the tooth and gumline and brush GENTLY using small circular motions along the entire gum-tooth arc, both on the inner and outer surfaces. Brush in one direction (right to left), then the other (left to right), and don’t forget the chewing surfaces.
- Massage your gums. Use a gentle rolling motion from the top of the gum down toward the tooth surface. This movement stimulates healthy blood circulation in the gum area. It’s gentle on the gums and non-abrasive to the teeth.
- Brush and massage for at least 3 minutes, three times a day. Consistent care and massage of the gums are crucial in preventing periodontal (gum) disease.
- Use an interdental brush or floss/floss pick daily. These tools are essential for removing plaque and food debris that collect between teeth.
How to Use an Interdental Brush
- Insert the interdental brush GENTLY between your teeth at the gumline.
- Move it in small circular motions forward and backward, making sure not to irritate your gums.
How to Use Dental Floss or a Floss Pick
- GENTLY insert the floss orfloss pick between two teeth.
- Slide it up and down, pressing lightly against the side of each tooth in turn. Be careful not to snap the floss against the gums - use controlled, gentle movements to avoid irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brushing at a 45-degree angle with small circular movements allows the bristles to reach the area between the teeth and gums effectively, helping to remove plaque buildup.
Which toothbrush should I use?
It’s important to use a toothbrush with soft or medium bristles. Avoid using hard-bristled toothbrushes, as they can damage the enamel and injure the gums. Your dentist or dental hygienist can recommend the most suitable toothbrush for your oral and gum health.
How often should I replace my toothbrush?
Ideally, you should replace your toothbrush every month. However, if the bristles are frayed or misshapen, it must be replaced immediately. Important: Bent or splayed bristles are a sign that you're applying too much pressure while brushing, which can cause gum recession and wear at the root surface of the teeth.
What’s the difference between dental floss and a floss pick?
These are different tools. Both are designed to clean between teeth by removing food particles and disrupting plaque buildup - the main cause of gingivitis and periodontitis.
Is an interdental brush better than floss?
Generally, interdental brushes are useful for spaces where floss or picks can't reach - such as under a dental bridge. Each tool has its place, and your dentist can help you choose the best one based on your needs.
Is it better to use an electric toothbrush?
At Studio Mura, we typically recommend manual toothbrushes because, in our clinical experience, they allow for better control of pressure during brushing and more delicate gum massage.
That said, electric toothbrushes are still a valid option when used carefully.
Which toothpaste should I use?
Use a toothpaste recommended by your dentist, tailored to your specific oral health needs.
Should I clean my tongue?
Yes. The tongue can harbor many harmful bacteria. If not removed, these bacteria stay in the mouth and spread, potentially leading to disease or bad breath. It's advisable to clean your tongue regularly using a toothbrush or a specific tongue-cleaning tool.
Should I use mouthwash?
Only if it’s prescribed by your dentist.
At Studio Mura, during your professional cleaning appointment, we assess your specific needs and prescribe brushing techniques tailored to your case. We also select and provide the most suitable tools from our curated selection - such as toothbrushes, interdental brushes, and toothpaste - for your clinical situation.
Conclusions
Brush your teeth and massage your gums to prevent cavities, gum recession, periodontitis, and other oral health problems caused by poor hygiene.
WARNING: Everyone’s oral hygiene needs are different. This article is not a substitute for professional dental advice.
Please consult your dentist for a professional cleaning session and to review the best at-home hygiene techniques for your case.
At Studio Mura, we are proud to be a center of excellence in dentistry, with prevention at the core of everything we do.
At Studio Mura, the CARE and SATISFACTION of our PATIENTS are at the heart of everything we do.
