Tooth brushing is the act of cleaning teeth with a toothbrush. Types of teeth Molars are used for grinding up foods Carnassials are used for slicing food. ... Three toothbrushes The toothbrush is an instrument used to clean teeth, consisting of a small brush on a handle. ...

Modern medical research has shown that brushing teeth properly can prevent cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal, or gum disease, which causes at least one-third of adult tooth loss. If teeth are not brushed correctly and frequently, it could lead to the calcification of saliva minerals, forming tartar.^{[citation needed]} Dental cavities, tooth decay, or caries is a disease of the teeth resulting in damage to tooth structure. ... Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums (gingiva) around the teeth. ... Periodontics is the study of clinical aspects of the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gingiva, alveolar (jaw) bone, root cementum, and the periodontal ligament in health and disease. ...

Brushing one's teeth has long been considered an important part of dental hygiene. As long ago as 3000 B.C. ancient Egyptians constructed crude toothbrushes from twigs and leaves to clean their teeth. Similarly, other cultures such as the Greeks, Romans, and Indians cleaned their teeth with twigs. Some would fray one end of the twig so that it could penetrate between the teeth more effectively. Oral hygiene is keeping the mouth clean. ... The toothbrush is a brush used to clean teeth. ...

Brushing process

Brushing is essential for cleaning teeth and gums effectively. Use a toothbrush with soft, nylon, round-ended bristles that will not scratch and irritate teeth or damage gums.

• Place toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.
• Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
• Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
• Use the "toe" of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.
• Brush tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

See also

• Toothpaste
• Tooth
• Dental care

Modern toothpaste gel Toothpaste is a paste or gel used to clean and improve the aesthetic appearance and health of teeth. ... The visible teeth of a smile. ... X-rays can reveal if a person has cavities Dentistry is the practical application of knowledge of dental science (the science of placement, arrangement, function of teeth) to human beings. ...

External links

• How to Brush Teeth Right
• Brushing and Flossing Properly