What is the required force when brushing teeth?
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In the city of Hamm, dentist Julia Thome is advocating for a change in the way we brush our teeth. According to Thome, the key to effective and gentle tooth cleaning lies in the correct pressure and technique.
Thome suggests that part of the bristles should be on the gum, and part on the tooth surface. This angle of about 45 degrees allows the bristles to sweep plaque from the gum crevices effectively.
Excessive pressure while brushing can damage teeth and cause gums to recede over time. To feel the right pressure while brushing, a kitchen or letter scale can be used. The ideal pressure for brushing teeth, according to the scale, should show 150 to 200 grams. This amount of pressure is enough to clean effectively without damaging gums or tooth enamel.
To remove plaque, Thome recommends using small, shaking movements while brushing. Fresh plaque on teeth is soft and does not require aggressive scrubbing. After using shaking movements, the plaque and food residues can be removed with a wiping movement towards the chewing surface.
Thome also suggests using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of non-abrasive toothpaste. It's important to spend about 2 minutes brushing twice a day, letting the brush do the work—avoid pressing too hard or scrubbing aggressively.
Using a kitchen or letter scale to practice brushing pressure helps train you to avoid excessive force often signaled by electronic toothbrush pressure sensors in some models. Remember, the goal is gentle, thorough cleaning that protects both teeth and gums while removing plaque effectively.
Dentist Julia Thome from Cologne's Dental Center Carree Dental also recommends pressing the bristles gently against the teeth when brushing. By following these simple tips, we can ensure a healthier and brighter smile.
Science plays a crucial role in promoting health-and-wellness, as demonstrated by dentist Julia Thome's advocacy for gentle tooth cleaning techniques supported by research. The science of dental care suggests using a soft-bristled toothbrush, non-abrasive toothpaste, and brushing with a 45-degree angle for effective plaque removal without harming teeth or gums.
