Brushing twice a day is a habit most people already have. But during check-ups we often see the same areas missed again and again — the gum line, the backs of the front teeth and the last molars.
Brushing, step by step
- Use a soft-bristled brush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste
- Angle the bristles at 45° towards the gum line
- Use small, gentle circular strokes — not hard scrubbing
- Clean the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of every tooth
- Brush for a full two minutes, twice a day
- Gently brush your tongue to reduce bacteria and bad breath
Cleaning between your teeth
A toothbrush can't reach the tight spaces between teeth, which is where many cavities and gum problems start. Clean between your teeth once a day with floss or interdental brushes.
- Slide the floss gently between two teeth — don't snap it into the gum
- Curve it into a C-shape around each tooth and move it up and down
- Use a fresh section of floss for each gap
When to change your brush
Replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles splay out, and always after a cold or fever.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis. Please visit a dentist for advice about your own teeth.