If you frequently brush more often than this, you risk wearing down your tooth enamel and damaging your gums. Each time you brush your teeth, you should do it for at least two minutes. [2] X Expert Source Tu Anh Vu, DMDBoard Certified Dentist Expert Interview. 10 April 2020. Try dividing your mouth into four sections and giving each one thirty seconds to help you keep track.
Brush all the surfaces of the teeth, the outer surfaces, the chewing surfaces, and the inner surfaces. For the inner surfaces, tilt the brush up and brush up and down a few times for each tooth.
Keep the floss tight against the tooth to remove plaque and avoid rubbing the gums. Gently move the floss with a back and forth movement. Make sure that you use only gentle pressure to avoid hurting your gums with the floss. If you maintain a good flossing routine and technique you will have healthier teeth and healthier gums. You should floss your teeth once a day. [7] X Research source
Combine a good brush with a fluoride toothpaste that is approved by dental professionals. Look for a seal or marking on the package of the toothpaste to check it for a professional endorsement. [9] X Research source Avoid using an abrasive toothpaste for more than two weeks in a row because it can wear down your tooth enamel and increase sensitivity
Do not apply too much pressure when you brush your tongue. Go over your tongue with the toothbrush four or five times.
It is possible to buy a device designed specifically for cleaning your tongue if you think using your toothbrush is not as effective as you would like. Tongue-scrapers can be used after you have brushed your teeth and flossed. You can find them in some health stores, pharmacies and online.
Try using mouthwash before going to bed to help protect your teeth from bacteria while you sleep. Specific products will have detailed instructions on how they should be used, but generally you will swish the liquid around in your mouth for thirty seconds to a minute before spitting it out.
Look for mouthwash that has a mark or seal from an official dental professional body endorsing it. Marked products have been assessed by experts and tested for effectiveness. [16] X Trustworthy Source American Dental Association World’s largest dental professional organization and advocate for proper oral health Go to source
After brushing, the hygienist, will floss and talk you through good oral hygiene practices. [21] X Research source If you have opted for an extra fluoride treatment, this will take a few minutes and will work to strengthen and harden your teeth.
Key gum disease risk factors include smoking, diabetes, and genetics. Ask your dentist if you are unsure about whether you are at an elevated risk of gum disease.
