What is the best way to brush?
• Brushing and flossing must be done at least twice a day, every day. • Use a soft, round-bristled toothbrush that is gentle on tooth enamel. • Make sure you reach all areas of your teeth during brushing and flossing. • Spend equal time on each area of your teeth. • Make sure to brush your tongue and gums. • Replace your toothbrush every three to four months. • Choose a toothpaste with fluoride. How to brush Guidelines for proper brushing: • Clean the outside surfaces of your teeth by positioning the brush at a 45-degree angle against the base of your teeth (where your teeth meet your gums). Gently move the brush back and forth using a tight, circular motion. Apply light pressure to get the bristles in the crevasses between teeth. • Repeat the process on the inside of your back teeth. • Clean the inside surfaces of your front teeth by putting your brush tip in a vertical position.
How well you brush your teeth is more important than how often you brush. Remember it’s the spots you miss where the problems start. Here are five tips to improve your brushing: Take the time to carefully and gently clean each tooth, ideally twice a day. The average person brushes for less than 35 seconds. A good brushing takes at least two to three minutes. QUICK TIP: Keep brushing for as long as a song. Be gentle, particularly when cleaning where the gums meet the teeth. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line, and gently work the bristles back and forth using short strokes. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too. Use a soft toothbrush, which is less likely to damage your teeth and gums. Choose a size and shape that enables you to easily reach every tooth. Be sure to change your toothbrush frequently. Every three months is recommended – more often if you’ve been ill. QUICK TIP: New season – New toothbrush. Remember to floss too since no amount of careful brushing can clea
