How to brush and clean between your teeth

Daily cleaning removes plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that contributes to tooth decay and gum disease. A few simple habits, done every day, make the biggest difference between dental visits.

Brushing

• Brush twice a day for about two minutes. Night-time brushing, just before bed, is especially important.
• Use fluoride toothpaste. Check the pack for the fluoride content, and ask your dentist if you or your child may need a different strength.
• Clean every surface of every tooth: the outside, the inside and the chewing surfaces.
• Spit out the extra toothpaste but do not rinse with water straight away. Rinsing washes away the fluoride that helps protect your teeth.
• A manual or electric brush works equally well if you clean all surfaces. A small head with soft or medium bristles suits most adults.

Plaque is easier to remove before it hardens, so a thorough clean every day works better than an occasional long one. Work around your mouth in the same order each time so you do not miss a surface.

Cleaning between your teeth

Brushing cannot reach the tight spaces between teeth, where plaque also builds up. Cleaning there every day helps keep gums healthier and can reduce bad breath.

• Floss: use a length of floss and slide it gently between two teeth, curve it into a C-shape against one tooth, then move it up and down. Many people find it easiest to floss before brushing.
• Interdental brushes: choose a size that fits snugly between your teeth without force. They can be easier than floss, especially if there are gaps.
• Avoid wooden toothpicks. They can injure your gums.

Mouthwash and what you eat

A fluoride mouthwash can help protect teeth, but use it at a different time from brushing, such as after lunch, so it does not wash away the toothpaste on your teeth.

Sugary food and drink feed the bacteria that cause decay. Having them less often, and mainly at mealtimes, helps. Tobacco also harms gums. Your dentist or doctor can support you if you want to stop.

If you need a little extra help

Children need help or supervision with brushing until they are old enough to do it well. People who find brushing difficult, for example because of limited hand movement, can ask their dental team about adapted brushes and techniques that suit them.

When to see a dentist

• Your gums keep bleeding when you clean your teeth
• You have toothache, or sharp pain with hot, cold or sweet food
• You notice spots or marks on your teeth
• You are due a check-up. Your dentist will advise how often you need one.

• Learn about Teeth Scaling and Polishing →
• Book an appointment →

Educational information. It does not replace advice from your dentist or doctor.