Adequate toothbrushing pressure: What's the right amount?
Dr. Julia Thome, a renowned dentist from Cologne's Carree Dental, has shared her expert advice on the correct technique and pressure for brushing teeth. Here's a summary of her recommendations:
Dr. Thome's technique for brushing teeth is designed to be gentle to avoid causing harm. She advises against aggressive scrubbing, suggesting that fresh plaque is a soft substance that can be easily removed with gentle brushing. Instead, she recommends using a kitchen or postal scale to gauge the pressure applied during tooth brushing. The ideal pressure, according to Dr. Thome, should be between 100 and 150 grams.
When brushing, half of the bristles should be on your gums, and half on the tooth surface. Dr. Thome suggests holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. The brushing motion should involve a combination of small, shaking movements and a wiping motion towards the chewing surface for effective plaque and food particle removal.
Following Dr. Thome's advice can help in the effective removal of plaque and food particles. However, it's important to remember that gentle pressure is key to prevent harm. Too much pressure during tooth brushing can cause gums to recede over time, leading to potential issues such as sensitivity and decay.
For those seeking more specific advice from Dr. Thome, it's recommended to visit her official dental practice website or verified social media channels directly. The current search results do not include her specific recommendations.
In general, established dental recommendations advise using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging gums and enamel. Brush for at least two minutes covering all tooth surfaces: outer, inner, and chewing surfaces. Use gentle, circular or short back-and-forth strokes, and apply light pressure to feel the bristles against the teeth without causing discomfort or gum irritation. Remember to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles become frayed. And above all, avoid scrubbing aggressively as excessive force can lead to gum recession and enamel wear.
Science plays a significant role in the field of health-and-wellness, as demonstrated by Dr. Julia Thome's careful dental advice. Her recommended brushing technique, involving gentle pressure between 100 and 150 grams, is backed by scientific understanding of plaque consistence and potential damage caused by aggressive brushing.
