Charter Method of Brushing

Charter Method of Brushing

The Charter Method of brushing is a great way to remove plaque near the gum line. It is often instructed by dentists and hygienists. For those that always feel as though something is in their teeth close to the gums such as popcorn, the Charter Method is a great technique to keep in mind. Below are the steps for the Charter Method:

• Using a soft toothbrush, face the bristles of the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle between the teeth and gum line. Unlike the Bass Method, make sure that the bristles are pointed downward and toward the biting surface of the teeth.

• Gently vibrate the bristles back and forth counting for ten seconds in that area.

• Move the toothbrush to the remaining areas of the arch repeating the same motion.

• When finished, proceed to use the technique on the opposite arch in all areas. Be sure that bristles are still facing the biting surface.

• To finish up the Charter Method, be sure to clean the inside surface of the teeth facing the tongue using the same technique.

Bass Method of Brushing

Bass Method of Brushing

The Bass Method of brushing is one of the most commonly used brushing techniques in the dental field. It is a great practice to use in efforts to stimulate the gums and to remove plaque near the gum line when performed properly. Below are the steps for brushing using the Bass Method:

• Using a soft toothbrush, place the bristles of the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle with the teeth and gums. Make sure that the bristles are facing the root of tooth and begin with the back left (or right) side of the teeth on the upper arch.

• Gently vibrate the bristles back and forth counting ten seconds in that area.

• Continue steps one and two for the remaining areas of the upper arch.

• When finished, move to the lower arch and repeat the technique. Be sure to rotate the bristles to face the root of the lower teeth at a 45 degree angle. 

• Once the lower arch is finished, repeat the process on the inside surface of the teeth facing the tongue. Proceed with the lower arch when completed with the upper arch.

Whitening with UV Rays

With spring break approaching within the next month or so, it is common to find many college students lining the doors of popular tanning salons. Earning the perfect tan and glow to the skin has become a necessity before traveling, and I personally see this occurrence becoming more prominent as I happen to work at a popular tanning salon near campus. In addition, dental whitening is turning more heads when people come into tanning salons! Who would’ve expected that, right? Well, next time you find yourself at a tanning location take a look at the products on the shelf behind the counter. Here’s what you may find:

Many tanning salons are now offering a whitening paste to apply to the teeth while tanning! It comes in a very small tube, and one usually also purchases a dental expander to keep the mouth smiling all thirty-two teeth while lying in the tanning bed. The ultraviolet rays that emit from the bulbs reflect onto the teeth and promote a reaction with the paste when applied to the teeth in efforts to whiten one’s smile. I must say… the product works! If you find yourself tanning often, especially for spring break, you may want to look into whitening products made specifically for tanners. We all want to look our best for our vacations, so why not kill two birds with one stone. Not only will you effectively bronze and glow on the beach, but you will also find yourself glowing when you smile!