a preferably non - electric , non - mechanically actuated toothbrush is provided having a generally u - shaped appearance with a rotary brush located , during use , on each side of a tooth to be cleaned . the brushes are configured to rotate about an axis which is parallel to the long axis of the tooth to be cleaned , and essentially perpendicular to the buccal and lingual gum line , of the user . the brushes are preferably held in contact with the teeth and gum tissue by a resilient section of the toothbrush . in this fashion , a pushing and pulling motion during brushing results in a rotational motion of the brushes . an improved method for cleansing teeth , cleaning the opening to the gingival crevice area , and stimulation of the gingival tissue is provided .