Tooth-Brushing Tips

Brushing your teeth twice a day is important for good oral health. Brushing removes bacteria and plaque that cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Here are tips to do it right:

• Use a soft-bristled brush and brush gently. Brushing too hard can hurt your gums and teeth.
  
• Be sure your toothbrush is the right size. The American Dental Association says that the size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth so you can reach all areas easily.
• Tilt the bristles at a 45-degree angle to your teeth.
• Let the tips of the bristles get under your gums. Move the brush gently to remove plaque there.
• Be sure to brush every tooth surface - the cheek side, tongue side, and chewing surfaces.
• Gently brush every surface of your front teeth and gums. To do this, turn the brush to a straight up/down direction and make several up-and-down strokes on the top and bottom teeth.
• Your toothbrush will only clean one or two teeth at a time, so move it to clean each tooth properly.
• Take your time. The American Dental Association advises two minutes of brushing, twice per day.
• Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste with fluoride.
• Replace your brush every three or four months.
• If you're not sure that your tooth-brushing method is right, ask your dentist.