How To Use An Electric Toothbrush (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Skip to ContentQuizzes

• PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
• QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
• LOG IN

  Log in

  Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. Facebook Google wikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
• RANDOM

• Home
• Random
• Browse Articles
• TrendingNew
• Quizzes & Games
• All QuizzesHot
• Love Quizzes
• Personality Quizzes
• Fun Games
• Dating Simulator
• Learn Something New
• Forums
• Courses
• Happiness Hub
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow

• Log in / Sign up

Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow

• Categories
• Personal Care and Style
• Personal Hygiene
• Oral Hygiene
• Cleaning Teeth

How to Use an Electric Toothbrush Download Article Co-authored by Tu Anh Vu, DMD

Last Updated: March 2, 2026 Approved

Download Article

• Using the Toothbrush
|
• Maintaining Oral Health
|
• Video
|
• Expert Q&A
|
• Tips

|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Tu Anh Vu, DMD. Dr. Tu Anh Vu is a Board Certified Dentist and Owner of Tu's Dental, her private practice, in Brooklyn, New York. With over six years of clinical experience, Dr. Vu helps adults and kids of all ages get over their anxiety with dental phobia. Dr. Vu has conducted research related to finding the cure for Kaposi Sarcoma cancer and has presented her research at the Hinman Meeting in Memphis. She received her undergraduate degree from Bryn Mawr College and a DMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 84% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 311,547 times.

Oral health is an important part of maintaining your overall well-being. According to board-certified dentist Tu Anh Vu, "An electric toothbrush cleans your teeth better than a manual toothbrush because it pulsates at a higher rate than you can move your hands." By following proper technique of using an electric toothbrush and guidelines for twice-daily brushing, you can keep your teeth pearly white, your breath fresh, and help prevent cavities or other infections.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 2:

Using the Toothbrush

Download Article

1. 1 Charge the unit. You won't be able to use an electronic toothbrush if your batteries are dead or it isn't charged. Either keep the toothbrush cradled in its charger or change the batteries when you notice it's losing its power, which can help ensure that you can use the toothbrush most effectively. If you run out of power, then you can either continue brushing manually or get a regular toothbrush if you have one.
   • Store your toothbrush close enough to the sink so it is easy to reach, but far enough away that you won't accidentally knock it into the sink and get electrocuted if the toothbrush is plugged in.
   • Consider keeping extra batteries on hand so that you can always brush your teeth.
2. 2 Maintain the integrity of your brush. Your electric toothbrush should have soft, nylon, and round-ended bristles for the most effective brushing. These bristles can wear with regular use and you should inspect the brush regularly to maintain its integrity, which can help ensure that you get the best brush possible.
   • Make sure the bristles don't have any sharp or jagged edges or endpoints.
   • Make sure that the bristles are not falling out. Also, check the colored bristles. If they start fading, it means that you should change the tip with a new one.
   • Replace your electronic toothbrush head every three to four months, or more often if you notice any of the above-mentioned issues
   Advertisement
3. 3 Prepare your toothbrush. Run your toothbrush under some water and apply a pea-sized dab of toothpaste onto the brush. This can help prepare your toothbrush for the most effective cleaning of your teeth and oral cavity. You can also apply the toothpaste on your teeth while toothbrush is turned off to better spread the paste around your mouth. If you have sensitive teeth due to weakened enamel, board-certified dentist Tu Anh Vu suggests "using a fluoride toothpaste formulated to help minimize sensitivity."
   • Consider using a fluoride toothpaste, which can help strengthen your teeth and remove plaque that causes disease and decay.
4. 4 Divide your mouth into four quadrants. Dividing your mouth into top, left, right, and bottom quadrants to tackle your brushing routine. This can help ensure that you brush each section of your teeth and mouth cavity.
   • You can start with whichever quadrant you like or is most comfortable to you and you should spend about 40 seconds on each quadrant while brushing every single surface of your teeth.
   • Make sure to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth.
5. 5 Place toothbrush bristles along gum line. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line. Keep the bristles in contact with your tooth surface and gum line, which can help ensure you get the most effective brush possible.
   • Apply only gentle pressure, as too much can injure your teeth and gums. The vibrations of your electronic toothbrush can also add a little additional pressure.
6. 6 Brush from outer to inner tooth surfaces. Maintaining the 45-degree angle, brush the outer surfaces of two to three teeth using a back and forth rolling motion. Once you've completed this procedure for a quadrant, move to the inner surfaces of your teeth and repeat the same procedure.
   • The rolling motion is achieved by contacting the brush to the gum line and then moving downward with the toothbrush towards the chewing surface. Also, brush your gums with gentle pressure and avoid holding the brush for too long next to the gum line because the rotation can cause gum recession over time.
   • To brush behind your front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make up and down strokes using only the front half of your brush.
7. 7 Clean biting surfaces, your tongue, and soft palate. You'll also need to brush your tongue and palate as well as the biting surfaces of your teeth. This can help remove debris and other odor-causing bacteria.
   • Use a gentle back and forth scrubbing motion to clean the biting surfaces and your tongue.
   • Use an equally or more gentle back and forth motion to clean your soft palate, or the roof of your mouth.
8. 8 Brush gently and thoroughly. Spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth, or about 30 seconds per quadrant. If you have trouble keeping track of time, board-certified dentist Tu Anh Vu suggests "choosing an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer if you have trouble remembering to brush your teeth for 2 whole minutes." Doing this at least twice a day can help prevent cavities and tooth decay by minimizing the debris and bacteria in your mouth.[1] Vu also advises "not scrubbing too hard, as this can lead to enamel erosion and receding gums."
   • You can even brush a little longer than 2 minutes, which will give you time to clean under your tongue and scrape your tongue and the roof of your mouth.[2]
   • Pressing too hard can damage your gums or wear down your enamel.[3]
   • Wait 15 to 20 minutes after eating or drinking acidic foods to help maintain your enamel.[4] This will provide plenty of time for the saliva to remineralize the enamel and create an alkaline environment. Instead, chew a piece of sugar-free gum that contains xylitol after meals and before brushing.
9. 9 Floss between your teeth. Even with thorough brushing, dentists recommend flossing your teeth twice a day. This can help remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth that brushing couldn't reach. When you floss, board-certified dentist Tu Anh Vu suggests "pushing the floss down so you're massaging your gums, rather than just gliding the floss between your teeth."
   • Remove about 18 inches (46 cm) of floss from the packaging. Wrap it around your middle fingers. You can then grasp the floss between your thumbs and forefingers which can help you clean more effectively.[5]
   • Make sure to be very gentle when guiding the floss between your teeth. Curve it against your tooth when it hits your gumline.
   • Rub the side of each tooth with the floss in an up and down motion. Try to remove the plaque formed under your gums and practice until you get the best results.
   • You may brush or floss first. A small study has shown, however, that flossing before brushing may increase the efficacy of fluoride.
10. 10 Use an antiseptic mouth rinse. After you have brushed and flossed, rinse out your mouth with some clean water and a mouthwash. Some studies have shown that mouthwash can reduce plaque and gingivitis and promote overall oral health. Mouthwash can also remove lingering particles of food or other germs.[6]
    • Swish around the water and mouthwash in your mouth.
    • Mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine are generally the preferred type of mouthwash. Products that contain alcohol may dry out your mouth and cause bad breath or even sores or ulcers.
11. 11 Store your toothbrush. Once you've finished your brushing routine, rinse off the toothbrush head and return it to its storage unit. This can help maintain the integrity and life of your toothbrush. Remove the brush from the handle, and hold it under running water for a few seconds. Set it upright in its holder to dry.[7]
    • Rinsing off your toothbrush with tap water will clean off any lingering toothpaste or debris.
    • Avoid covering your toothbrush head, which can help promote the growth of bacteria.
    • Make sure you store the toothbrush in an upright position.
Advertisement

Part 2 Part 2 of 2:

Maintaining Oral Health

Download Article

1. 1 Brush and floss twice daily. Brushing and flossing each day as well as after meals may promote the health of your oral cavity. A clean environment may prevent cavities, infections, and stains.[8]
   • Brush and floss 15 - 20 minutes after meals if you are able. If you have food or other debris lingering in your teeth, it can promote infection and decay. Chewing a piece of gum may help minimize this risk if you don't have a toothbrush available.[9]
2. 2 Avoid sugary and acidic foods and beverages. Foods and drinks containing sugar or acid can contribute to oral decay, and watching your intake can help maintain your oral health. Cleaning your teeth after consuming these items may minimize your risk of tooth decay and infection.[10]
   • A healthy and well-balanced diet of lean protein, fruits and vegetables, and legumes can promote your overall well-being, including oral health. Raw fruits and vegetables are best. Raw fruits and vegetables help clean the teeth. Also, stick to whole grain bread and avoid sugary foods.
   • Some otherwise healthy foods are acidic. This includes citrus fruits and wine. Continue to enjoy these foods and beverages, but reduce how much you consume and consider brushing your teeth 15 to 20 minutes after you're done to prevent enamel loss.
   • Some examples of sugary and acidic foods and beverages of which to steer clear are soft drinks, sweets, candies, and wine.
3. 3 Use alcohol-free mouthwashes and toothpastes. Mouthwashes and toothpastes that have alcohol may damage your enamel and overall oral health. Use toothpastes or mouthwashes that have no alcohol to minimize your risk for these problems.
4. 4 Avoid grinding your teeth. If you clench and grind your teeth, you may damage your teeth and mouth. If you're a tooth-grinder, talk to your dentist about wearing a mouth guard.
   • Grinding can cause tooth sensitivity and damage including chips and cracks.
   • Biting your nails, opening bottles or keeping objects between your teeth are also bad habits. Avoid these habits as much as possible so that you don't damage your teeth.
5. 5 Visit your dentist's office regularly. Schedule regular checkups with your dentist at least twice a year. If you are having issues with your teeth, see your dentist more often.[11] Board-certified dentist Tu Anh Vu agrees that "it's cheaper to prevent things from happening. If you wait too long to see a dentist, you might need a bigger, more costly procedure."
   • For instance, a small cavity might be treated with just a filling, but if you wait, you may end up needing a root canal instead.[12]
Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question

• Question How do you use an electric toothbrush properly? Tu Anh Vu, DMD Board Certified Dentist Dr. Tu Anh Vu is a Board Certified Dentist and Owner of Tu's Dental, her private practice, in Brooklyn, New York. With over six years of clinical experience, Dr. Vu helps adults and kids of all ages get over their anxiety with dental phobia. Dr. Vu has conducted research related to finding the cure for Kaposi Sarcoma cancer and has presented her research at the Hinman Meeting in Memphis. She received her undergraduate degree from Bryn Mawr College and a DMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Tu Anh Vu, DMD Board Certified Dentist Expert Answer Avoid scrubbing your teeth too hard, as this can lead to enamel erosion and receding gums. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 5
• Question Should each quadrant have a pea-size toothpaste, or does that pea-size toothpaste represent the whole mouth? Cristian Macau, DDS Doctor of Dental Surgery Dr. Macau is a Doctor of Dental Surgery based in London, England. Dr. Macau is an oral surgeon, periodontist, and aesthetician at Favero Dental Clinic where he is known for his cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics work. He is actively involved in scientific research in the field of dentistry and he received his DDS from Carol Davila University of Medicine in 2015. Cristian Macau, DDS Doctor of Dental Surgery Expert Answer The pea sized amount of toothpaste is for the entire mouth. You should not exceed this amount, especially if you use an abrasive toothpaste or a toothpaste that has a high concentration of fluoride. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 17
• Question What is the proper way to position an electric toothbrush on teeth and gums? Cristian Macau, DDS Doctor of Dental Surgery Dr. Macau is a Doctor of Dental Surgery based in London, England. Dr. Macau is an oral surgeon, periodontist, and aesthetician at Favero Dental Clinic where he is known for his cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics work. He is actively involved in scientific research in the field of dentistry and he received his DDS from Carol Davila University of Medicine in 2015. Cristian Macau, DDS Doctor of Dental Surgery Expert Answer The best way is to place the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle and use a low pressure on all of your tooth surfaces. For the lateral surfaces, you can use circular strokes combined with vertical ones. For the chewing surfaces, simply use circular movements. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 12

See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

• Follow the 2 minutes rule or your gums would really bleed. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 0
• Brush your teeth a minimum of twice a day, or after every meal. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0

Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

You Might Also Like

The Proper Way to Brush Your Teeth (And Its Benefits) How toCare for Your Teeth How to Make Your Gums Pink & Treat Discoloration How toClean Your Whole Mouth How toBrush Your Teeth With Braces On How toClean Teeth With Braces How toGet Rid of Yellow Teeth How toRemove Plaque How to Apply Whitening Strips How toFix a Loose Tooth How toUse Mouthwash How to Clean Electric Toothbrushes How toClean Your Tongue Properly How toSanitize a Toothbrush Advertisement

References

1. ↑ http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brushing-your-teeth
2. ↑ Tu Anh Vu, DMD. Dentist. Personal interview. 7 May 2020.
3. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/brushing-teeth-mistakes
4. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/brushing-teeth-mistakes
5. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20045536
6. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23579302
7. ↑ https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/toothbrushes
8. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/basics/prevention/con-20030076
9. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/brushing-teeth-mistakes

More References (3)

10. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/basics/prevention/con-20030076
11. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/basics/prevention/con-20030076
12. ↑ Tu Anh Vu, DMD. Dentist. Personal interview. 7 May 2020.

About This Article

Co-authored by: Tu Anh Vu, DMD Board Certified Dentist This article was co-authored by Tu Anh Vu, DMD. Dr. Tu Anh Vu is a Board Certified Dentist and Owner of Tu's Dental, her private practice, in Brooklyn, New York. With over six years of clinical experience, Dr. Vu helps adults and kids of all ages get over their anxiety with dental phobia. Dr. Vu has conducted research related to finding the cure for Kaposi Sarcoma cancer and has presented her research at the Hinman Meeting in Memphis. She received her undergraduate degree from Bryn Mawr College and a DMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. This article has been viewed 311,547 times. 30 votes - 84% Co-authors: 33 Updated: March 2, 2026 Views: 311,547 Categories: Featured Articles | Cleaning Teeth

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

Read More...

Article SummaryX

When you use an electric toothbrush, think of your teeth as being four sections: the right side, left side, top set of front teeth, and bottom set of front teeth. Brush each section separately by placing the brush at a 45° angle to your gum line, and move the brush in a back and forth motion toward the cutting edge of your teeth. To brush the inner tooth surface, hold the brush vertically and make up and down strokes with the front half of the brush. Keep reading for advice from our Dental Surgeon reviewer on how to brush your tongue and keep your gums healthy. Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Spanish Italian German Chinese Russian Indonesian Japanese

• Print
• Send fan mail to authors

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 311,547 times.

Reader Success Stories

• 

  Harry Van Niekerk

  Mar 9, 2017

  "I did not know the correct technique. Your article was helpful to cover the important details. "

More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Tu Anh Vu, DMD Board Certified Dentist Co-authors: 33 Updated: March 2, 2026 Views: 311,547 84% of readers found this article helpful. 30 votes - 84% Click a star to add your vote

Harry Van Niekerk

Mar 9, 2017

"I did not know the correct technique. Your article was helpful to cover the important details. "

Pat Marlin

Dec 21, 2016

"The review was very informative and helpful."

Anonymous

Nov 9, 2019

"I now know how to brush property, thanks."

Mary Lopez

Mar 11, 2017

"Very Informative! Thank you!" Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

Am I a Good Kisser QuizTake QuizDo I Smell Bad QuizTake QuizWhat's the Best Meal Kit for Me QuizTake QuizAm I Healthy QuizTake QuizWhat’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?Take QuizWhen Will I Die QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

The Proper Way to Brush Your Teeth (And Its Benefits)How toCare for Your TeethHow to Make Your Gums Pink & Treat DiscolorationHow toClean Your Whole Mouth

Featured Articles

What 16 of the Most Common Hugs MeanJuicy, Deep, & Hot-Seat Questions to Get to Know Your Friends Better40+ Talking Games to Play with Friends, Partners & MoreHow toMake Friends

Trending Articles

Do I Have Brainrot QuizWhat Emojis Mean Sex?What Pokémon Am I Quiz151 of the Juiciest “Most Likely To” Questions to AskSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouDo You Agree with These Hygiene Hot Takes?

Featured Articles

The Different Types of People You Can Find in a Friend GroupAn Introduction to Kibbe Body Types (with Styling Tips!)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?From Alpha to Omega: A Guide to the 7 Male Personalities

Featured Articles

7 Easy Card Magic Tricks You Can Master in MinutesHow to Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for BeginnersHow toHypnotize SomeoneThe Easiest Guinness World Records to Break: Which Will You Try?How to Solve a Rubik's Cube in 20 MovesHow toWhistle with Two Fingers

Watch Articles

How toGrow Out Your BangsHow toDress PunkHow toEnd a Long Distance RelationshipHow toDo E Girl EyelinerHow toRespond to the Fire EmojiHow to Stop Your Glasses from Making Your Eyes Look Small

Trending Articles

Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Am I More Hannah Montana or Miley Stewart?The Most Attractive Zodiac Signs & What Makes Each Sign Beautiful24 Different Types of Bras ExplainedWhat Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Can Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?

Quizzes & Games

Which Diet Is Right for Me QuizTake QuizWhat Age Is My Brain QuizTake QuizWhat Do I Want in a Weight Loss Program QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizHow Long Will I Live QuizTake QuizWhat Should I Eat for Lunch QuizTake Quiz

• Categories
• Personal Care and Style
• Personal Hygiene
• Oral Hygiene
• Cleaning Teeth

wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.

• Home
• About wikiHow
• Experts
• Jobs
• Contact Us
• Site Map
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info
• Contribute

Follow Us

×

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --521