We all know how to brush, but small habits make a big difference. Here are the basics of daily care.
When and how long?
Brush twice a day, especially in the morning and before bed, for at least two minutes. Night-time brushing matters most: saliva flow drops during sleep, leaving teeth more vulnerable.
Which brush and toothpaste?
- A soft-bristled brush protects your gums; a hard brush does not clean better.
- For adults, fluoride toothpaste is the most effective protection against decay.
- Replace your brush about every 3 months, or sooner if the bristles splay.
- Used correctly, an electric toothbrush can help, especially with plaque control.
How to brush
- Place the brush at about 45 degrees to the gum line.
- Use small, gentle circular movements on the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of every tooth.
- Hold the brush upright for the inner surfaces of the front teeth.
- Gently brush your tongue too.
After brushing
Spit out the toothpaste but don’t rinse with lots of water, so fluoride stays on your teeth longer. After acidic food or drinks (fruit juice, fizzy drinks), wait about 30 minutes before brushing.
Don’t forget between your teeth
A brush can’t reach between teeth. Using floss or interdental brushes once a day is the most effective way to prevent decay between teeth and gum inflammation.
We can choose the right interdental brush size for you together at your next check-up.