Charter’s method of Tooth Brushing

Charter’s method of tooth brushing / tooth massage -A Valuable supplement in periodontal therapy.

Placement of toothbrush bristles & angulation in charter’s method of tooth brushing.

Introduction :

Charters method of tooth brushing is refers to a temporary technique used in tooth brushing to effectively clean the teeth and gums , specially in patients with periodontal surgery.

 In this article we will get to know everything about charters method  of tooth brushing - how to do , indication , advantage , precaution & toothbrush massage.

picture depicts comparison between modified bass, modified stillman’s & charter’s method of tooth brushing.

How to Brush Teeth applying Charter’s method of tooth Brushing :

The Charters method involves the following steps :

  1. Hold soft or medium bristled multi tufted toothbrush on the tooth with the bristles pointing towards the crown at a 45degree angle to the long axis of the tooth, towards crown surface. -Bristles should be partially on the gingiva & partially on the tooth.
    -Side of the bristles should be flexed against the gingiva.
  2. Use short, gentle back & forth gentle vibratory strokes in a circular motion, focusing on the area where the gums meet the teeth.
  3. Brush both the outside and inside surfaces of all teeth, gradually moving from one tooth to the next.
  4. Pay special attention to the back molars, as they often accumulate more plaque.
  5. Brush the chewing surfaces (pits & fissures)of the teeth as well, using a gentle back-and-forth motion.
  6. Brush the tongue lightly to remove any bacteria or debris.
  7. Rinse the mouth thoroughly with water or mouthwash to remove any remaining toothpaste or debris.

Advantage of charter’s method of tooth brushing:


• Gentle plaque removal
• Sides of the bristles are flexed against the gingiva & back -forth motion is used to massage Gingiva.

Indications of charter’s method of tooth brushing:


• Receded interdental papilla
Temporary used for cleaning tooth & gingiva of healing wounds after periodontal surgery. ( FOR HEALTHY GINGIVA- Modified bass technique is recommended.)
• Patients with orthodontic appliances/ patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. & –Gingival Massage.


Precautions with charter’s method of tooth brushing:


• Bristles tips shouldn’t drag across gingiva .(gentle tooth brushing )
Soft or medium bristled toothbrush 🪥 only recommended not hard.

Toothbrush massage / charter’s brushing technique :

– method of toothbrushing is known for gingival massaging technique.

-Toothbrush massage is accepted by most general practitioners & periodontists to maintain good oral health.

How massage is done.?

Tooth massage is done by placing toothbrush firmly against the gingiva , assume a greater value than cleaning action alone.


Proper gingival massage should accomplish–

  1. Create firm Gingiva leading to resistant to diseases.
  2. Stimulation of supporting system of tooth.
  3. Cleaning of teeth – soft tissues & debris.
  4. Prevention from caries.

Benefits of gingival massage –

  1. Improved periodontal circulation.
  2. Decrease gingival bleeding.
  3. Gingival calour & tone.
  4. Resistance of gingiva to infection & trauma.
  5. Toughness & tightening of epithelial collar.
  6. Reduction in gingival sensitiveness.
  7. Lessening of deposits on the tooth.
  8. Decrease of caries.
  9. Improved pulpal circulation.
  10. Lessen root sensitivity.
  11. Insurance of patients cooperation.
It is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, using the Charters method. 

Additionally, it is important to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when the bristles become frayed.

 Regular dental visits for professional cleanings are also vital for maintaining oral health.

also read :

  1. regular toothbrushing technique / modified bass technique
  2. why to brush twice daily
  3. interdental cleaning aids