What are some ways to effectively brush your teeth?

Several: The best and most common is to switch to an electric toothbrush, the second is using disclosing plaque tablets to indicate the areas that you are missing.

Electric toothbrush: An electric toothbrush is more efficient then a manual toothbrush. I recommend the name brand electric toothbrush for my patients. Please ask your dentist or hygienist for their recommendations on manual vs. Electric.

Slow and gentle: The best way to brush is slow and gentle. Think of it more like tickling your teeth than scrubbing them. This allows the bristles time to conform to the shape of your tooth, it will be easier to keep the brush at the gum line and not miss spots. Use only a soft bristle toothbrush. Medium and hard toothbrushes can damage both your gums and your enamel. Some people find electric ones helpful.

Tooth brushing: Depends on your mouth, dexterity, diet. See your Dentist or Hygienist to personalize an Oral Hygiene program for you. In general, brush 2x/day for 2 full minutes by the clock, pea-sized portion of t'paste, soft bristled brush (either manual or electric). Brush GENTLY but completely. That will clean 65% of tooth surfaces. Floss DAILY to clean the other 35%. Get professional cleaning 2x/year.