Are You Really Brushing Correctly?
Most of us learned brushing habits as kids and never updated them. Here's the technique that actually works.
May 25, 2026 · Dr. Esther Lukwago · 1 views
Most of us learned to brush as children and never changed since. Poor technique is one of the most common causes of gum recession, enamel wear, and persistent plaque I see every week at Kays Dental.
The Modified Bass Technique
Place your brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Use small, gentle circular strokes — think massage, not scrubbing. Clean two to three teeth at a time before moving on.
How long should you brush?
Two full minutes, twice daily. Electric toothbrushes with built-in timers remove significantly more plaque than manual brushes. Try 30 seconds per quadrant.
Common mistakes to fix today
- Brushing right after meals — wait 30 minutes after acidic food
- Pressing too hard — erodes enamel and recedes gums over time
- Forgetting the tongue — holds most odour-causing bacteria
- Not replacing your brush — do it every 3 months
Have a question for Dr. Esther?
💬 Ask on WhatsAppRelated posts
Continue reading →
What Is Holistic Dentistry?
Treating the mouth as part of the whole body — the philosophy behind Kays Dental.