A complete guide to brushing techniques and oral care for all ages.

 Bacterial plaque is one of the main causes of oral diseases, as well as unpleasant bad breath. Its buildup must be controlled through personal hygiene practices or with professional help. This invisible substance accumulates on the surface of the teeth and is also known as dentobacterial plaque. Although it’s invisible, plaque can be detected using disclosing tablets, natural dyes like beetroot, blackberries, or indigo blue.

Brushing Technique Instruction as a Basic Measure for Cavity Prevention

Oral hygiene is the key to preventing and maintaining the health of the teeth, gums, and tongue. The main goal of various hygiene techniques—including flossing, plaque detection, and brushing—is to eliminate bacterial plaque in these areas. Oral hygiene should begin from birth:

  • If the child has no teeth, the mother or caregiver should gently clean the gums once a day using a damp cloth or gauze, preferably during bath time.
  • Once the first tooth appears, the mother or caregiver should clean it gently with a damp cloth, gauze, or a soft toothbrush.
  • For children aged 1 to 3 (with adult help and supervision), oral hygiene should be performed after every meal using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush. Toothpaste is optional; if used, only a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a pea) should be applied under adult supervision to avoid fluoride ingestion.
  • From age 4 onward (with help and supervision), children should brush their teeth after each meal using a toothbrush with a small head and soft, rounded nylon bristles. A small head allows access to all areas of the mouth. Replace the brush when bristles become frayed or bent, as it won’t clean properly and can damage the gums.

Toothbrushing Technique

  • Place the toothbrush on the teeth and gums.
  • Upper teeth should be brushed downward, and lower teeth should be brushed upward—making sure to clean both the inner and outer surfaces.
  • Chewing surfaces of all molars and premolars should be brushed using circular motions.
  • To reach the left-side teeth more easily, keep the left elbow at shoulder height. For the right side, keep the elbow close to the body.
  • After brushing teeth and gums, brush the tongue with a sweeping motion from back to front.

Features of a Good Toothbrush

  • A small head, soft bristles, and rounded tips.
  • Replace the toothbrush when bristles are worn or bent.
  • Visit the dentist at least every six months.
  • Brushing should be complemented by flossing—only for children over 6 years old. Younger children may not have the motor skills to use floss safely and could injure their gums.

Plaque Detection Tools

Disclosing tablets or coloring agents can be swished around the mouth to identify plaque buildup. Areas that appear more stained indicate where plaque has accumulated—these are spots that aren’t being properly brushed and need more attention.

The stains can be removed by brushing and flossing. It’s recommended to use plaque-disclosing tools at least four times a year to monitor and improve brushing technique.