Prevention

How do I brush correctly?

Reviewed by Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist). Last reviewed November 3, 2026.

Status: Approved

Short answer: The ADA recommends brushing twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, short, tooth-wide strokes on the outer, inner and chewing surfaces. Don't scrub hard. Replace your brush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles fray.

Step by step

The ADA describes this technique:

  • Place the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.
  • Move it gently back and forth in short, tooth-wide strokes.
  • Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces and the chewing surfaces.
  • To clean the inside of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes.

Choosing a brush

The ADA suggests a soft-bristled brush that fits your mouth and lets you reach every tooth. Firm or even medium bristles may damage your gums and enamel. Manual and powered brushes can both do the job. See Are electric toothbrushes better?

Common mistakes

  • Scrubbing too hard. The ADA says to brush gently rather than vigorously.
  • Using a worn brush. Frayed bristles don't clean as well, so replace the brush every three to four months.
  • Skipping between your teeth. A brush can't reach everywhere. The ADA recommends cleaning between your teeth once a day. See Is flossing really necessary?

Caring for your brush

The ADA says to rinse your brush after use, store it upright to air-dry, and not routinely cover it or keep it in a closed container. Don't share toothbrushes.

At Indy Smile Group

Ask your dental team to check your brushing technique at your next cleaning. See our teeth cleaning pages for Fishers, Carmel and North Indy.

Next step

Ready to talk it through with a dentist? Book online or call the office closest to you.

Frequently asked questions

Should I brush or floss first?
The ADA says there's no right order. What matters is doing both well: brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth once a day.

Can brushing too hard hurt my gums?
It can. The ADA says firm or medium bristles may damage gums and enamel, and recommends gentle strokes with a soft-bristled brush.

Should I cover my toothbrush?
The ADA says not routinely. A closed, moist container is more likely to grow unwanted bacteria. Store it upright and let it air-dry.

Sources

  1. ADA MouthHealthy – Brushing Your Teeth
  2. ADA MouthHealthy – Toothbrushes
  3. ADA MouthHealthy – Flossing

Last reviewed: November 3, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist)

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