How to brush your teeth

Daily brushing and cleaning between your teeth is important because it removes plaque. If the plaque isn’t removed, it builds up and can cause tooth decay and gum disease.

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day.

Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or when the bristles get worn or frayed.

The five steps below show you how to brush your teeth well

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Brush in the morning and at night before going to bed.

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Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste on a soft toothbrush.

How to brush - illustration

Brush teeth and along the gum using a gentle circular motion. Start with the outside surfaces.

How to brush - illustration

Repeat on the inside surfaces.

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Use a light back and forth motion on the chewing surfaces.

Spit out toothpaste, but don’t rinse with water. The small amount of toothpaste left behind helps to protect teeth against decay

Be sure to brush all surfaces: top and bottom, left and right, front and back.

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Electric toothbrushes also do a good job of cleaning teeth. Learn about how to brush with an electric toothbrush.

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