What pressing force is required while brushing teeth?
Dentist Julia Thome from Cologne's Carree Dental dental center has shared her recommendations for brushing teeth effectively without causing harm to the enamel or gums.
To determine the right pressure for brushing teeth, Julia Thome suggests using a kitchen or letter scale. The ideal pressure, as indicated by her advice, is relatively light, with the weight range on a scale showing between 100 to 150 grams.
The technique of brushing teeth, as recommended by Julia Thome, involves small, shaking movements. She advises against brushing teeth in a back-and-forth motion or holding the toothbrush flat against the gums. Instead, she suggests holding the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle to the gum line.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gentle circular or vibratory motions, and brushing for 2 minutes, covering all tooth surfaces, are common expert recommendations for brushing technique. It's also important to avoid pressing so hard that your gums feel sore or the toothbrush bends significantly.
By placing the toothbrush on a scale and applying increasing force until you reach around 150-200 grams, you can replicate Julia Thome's recommended pressure at home. This pressure is light enough to clean effectively without damaging enamel or gums.
It's worth noting that fresh plaque is soft and does not require aggressive scrubbing while brushing teeth. Aggressive brushing can potentially harm the teeth and cause gum recession over time. After using small, shaking movements, one can wipe plaque and food residue towards the chewing surface, according to Julia Thome.
Julia Thome's recommendations align with widely accepted dental principles, but direct citation or video from her was not found in the search results. If you need her exact instructions or demonstrations, it may require looking up her official channels or dental publications directly.
The ideal brushing pressure for teeth is not related to the amount of dollars spent on a toothbrush. Too much pressure with the toothbrush can potentially harm teeth over time, regardless of the cost of the toothbrush.
In summary, to maintain good oral hygiene, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, apply gentle pressure (100 to 150 grams on a scale), and use small, shaking movements while brushing at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Avoid aggressive brushing and scrubbing, as it can cause harm to your teeth and gums.
Science plays a crucial role in understanding the best practices for dental health-and-wellness, as demonstrated by dentist Julia Thome's recommendations for effective and gentle tooth brushing. To maintain oral hygiene and safeguard the health of enamel and gums, it is essential to utilize a soft-bristled toothbrush, light pressure (100 to 150 grams on a scale), and small, shaking movements while brushing at a 45-degree angle to the gum line.
