Brushing and cleaning between teeth: the everyday basics

A simple daily routine — brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth — goes a long way towards healthy teeth and gums.

Most tooth decay and gum disease can be prevented. The good news is that the habits that help most are simple, cheap and take only a few minutes a day.

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

Brush last thing at night and on at least one other occasion during the day, for about two minutes each time. Fluoride toothpaste strengthens tooth enamel and helps protect against decay.

Cover every surface: outer, inner and chewing surfaces.
Angle the bristles towards the gum line and use small, gentle movements.
After brushing, spit out the toothpaste rather than rinsing with water, so the fluoride stays on your teeth longer.

Clean between your teeth

A toothbrush can't reach well between teeth, where plaque and food collect. Cleaning these gaps once a day with floss or small interdental brushes helps protect your gums. If your gums bleed when you start, keep going gently — and mention it at your next check-up if it doesn't settle.

Change your toothbrush regularly

Replace your toothbrush, or electric brush head, every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

Watch sugary snacks and drinks

How often you have sugar matters as much as how much. Keeping sweets and sugary drinks to mealtimes gives your teeth time to recover in between.

Children's teeth

Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, and help or supervise young children while they brush. Ask your dentist how much toothpaste is right for your child's age.

Everyone's mouth is different. Your dentist can show you the brushing and cleaning methods that suit your teeth best.

References

This article is general information and is not a substitute for advice from your own dentist.

Have a question about your teeth?

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