Cleaning Your Teeth

Two minutes, twice a day

Good brushing is the single most effective thing you can do for your dental health. Brush for two full minutes, twice a day — last thing at night and at one other time during the day — with a fluoride toothpaste.

How to brush well

• Use a small-headed brush with medium or soft bristles, or an electric toothbrush — studies show rotating-oscillating electric brushes remove plaque more effectively.
• Angle the bristles at 45 degrees towards the gum line, where plaque collects.
• Use small circular movements, a few teeth at a time — don't scrub back and forth.
• Clean every surface: outside, inside and biting surfaces of every tooth.
• Don't forget the tongue side of your lower front teeth and the backs of your last molars — the most commonly missed spots.

Toothpaste and fluoride

Adults should use a toothpaste containing 1,350–1,500 ppm fluoride (check the ingredients on the tube). Children need only a smear (under 3) or a pea-sized amount (3–6), supervised so they don't swallow it.

Look after your brush

Replace your toothbrush or electric brush head every 2–3 months, or sooner once the bristles splay. A worn brush cleans poorly.

Brushing isn't the whole story

A toothbrush can't reach between your teeth — that's a third of the tooth surface! See our guide to interdental cleaning below, cut down on sugary snacks (diet advice here), and attend regular check-ups.

Cleaning between your teeth

Use floss or interdental brushes once a day, ideally before brushing at night. Interdental brushes (the little bottle-brush type) are easier to use than floss for most people — ask us to show you the right sizes for your gaps at your next visit. Bleeding when you first start is common and usually settles within a week or two; if it persists, see our gum disease page.