Q: Which tooth brushing technique involves the application of the bristles to the sulcular area?
dental hygiene care, tooth brushing techniques, bass method, dental hygiene exam prep

Q: Which tooth brushing technique involves the application of the bristles to the sulcular area?

dental hygiene care, tooth brushing techniques, bass method, dental hygiene exam prep

Q: Which tooth brushing technique involves the application of the bristles to the sulcular area?

(A). Stillman
(B). Roll
(C). Charter
(D). Bass

Keyword: sulcular area

Bass method is the most widely used technique, as it can target plaque found slightly below the gingival margin. The toothbrush head rests at a 45 ° angle with the bristles directed into the sulcus, and small circular motions are used to remove the plaque.

  • In roll technique, the filaments are directed apically, pressed against the gingiva, and then are rolled toward the biting surface in a single stroke. This technique is not effective at removing plaque at the gingival margin.
  • In Stillman’s technique, the brush is angled to the tissues at a 45° angle then vibrated to “massage” the gum, rather than being inserted into the sulcus.
  • Charters method is the reverse of the Stillman method. The brush tips are directed away from the gingiva and towards the chewing surfaces. Patients with orthodontics, periodontal surgery, and fixed appliances should use Charter’s technique.

Answer: D. Bass

Learn more for the dental hygiene boards

The information we just reviewed can be useful to know for the simple theory part of the dental hygiene boards (NBDHE, NDHCE). But this is also important for the case studies. What keywords would you need to look for in the case study to recommend that Bass method? Those would be:

  • Gingivitis
  • Periodontitis
  • History of gum disease
  • High risk for infection

As you can see, any clues that point towards the patient having a problem or a potential problem can lead to recommending the Bass method. Tell the patient to “feel the bristles” inside the gums and that may help them be a little more meticulous! Make sure to tell the patients that this is a “pocket” between your tooth and the gum that they cannot see. Educating our patients about oral health is one of the most important roles we play.

At StudentRDH, we try to prepare you with the best prep course for the dental hygiene boards, but also give you plenty of tips for your clinicals. Every day is another day for you to help your patient while becoming the dental professional you deserve to be. If you need an awesome STEP-by-STEP course, see StudentRDH’s FULL course! How much is StudentRDH Dental hygiene boards?

Related blog in the chapter of dental hygiene process of care: Bacteria mainly involved in caries formation

(Disclaimer: StudentRDH is NOT affiliated with the NBDHE, NDHCE, CSCE, CDCA, WREB.)

Written by
Claire Jeong, RDH, MS

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