Most modern toothbrushing methods focus on a 45-degree angle toward the gums. But there is also an older method that works completely differently — with vertical motions, from top to bottom. This is the Leonard Method, also known as the vertical method.
Although it is less common today as a first recommendation, it is still important to know it — both to understand the differences between methods, and because there are situations in which it may be suitable.
What is the Leonard Method?
The Leonard Method is a brushing technique in which the brush is placed at a 90-degree angle (straight toward the teeth) and vertical motions are used — from top to bottom on the upper teeth, and from bottom to top on the lower teeth.
Unlike the Bass or Stillman methods, there is no emphasis here on entering the gum pocket. The goal is mainly cleaning the tooth surfaces with a broad vertical motion.
How do you perform the Leonard Method in practice?
- Angle — hold the brush at a 90-degree angle, straight toward the teeth.
- Vertical motion — on the outer and inner sides, use motions from top to bottom (on the upper teeth) or from bottom to top (on the lower teeth).
- Chewing surfaces — on the chewing surfaces, use back-and-forth motions.
- Gentle pressure — it is important not to press hard. A vertical motion with excessive pressure can wear the tooth or the gums.
- Systematic coverage — go over all the teeth, on both the outer and inner sides, without skipping areas.
Advantages of the method
The main advantage of the Leonard Method is its simplicity. The vertical motion is easy to understand and perform, especially for children or people who struggle with more precise angles.
In addition, it covers a relatively wide area with each motion, so some people feel that it “cleans more” in a short time.
Disadvantages and limitations
Here it is important to be honest. The Leonard Method is considered today less effective than other methods for cleaning the gumline — the most critical area for preventing inflammation and gum disease.
- It does not get the bristles well into the gum pocket.
- A vertical motion with pressure can cause tooth wear (especially at the neck of the tooth) or harm the gums.
- In most up-to-date professional guidelines, it does not appear as the first recommended method for most patients.
Who may the method suit?
The Leonard Method can be suitable in certain cases:
- Young children who still struggle with more complex methods
- People with motor limitations that make it hard to perform a 45-degree angle consistently
- Anyone looking for a simple, clear method as an intermediate step while learning proper brushing
Important to emphasize: even if this method is used, it is highly recommended to also clean between the teeth (dental floss or an interdental brush), because no brushing method replaces that.
Bottom line
The Leonard Method is a simple technique based on vertical motions. It is easy to learn, but less effective than more modern methods (mainly Bass and Stillman) for cleaning the gumline.
If you use it today — there is no need to panic. But it is worth checking with your dentist whether it truly suits your situation, or whether it is better to switch to a method that protects the gums better over time.
Sources
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A professional review of historical and modern brushing techniques presents the Leonard Method as a simple vertical method, but notes its limitations compared with methods aimed at the gum pocket.
PMC – Historical and Current Toothbrushing Techniques -
Clinical guidance from dental organizations emphasizes that methods based on a 45-degree angle toward the gums (such as Bass) are considered more effective for maintaining gum health than vertical motions alone.
American Dental Association – Toothbrushing Recommendations
The information in this article is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute a substitute for personal medical advice. It is recommended to consult a qualified physician before making any treatment decision.