Choosing the proper toothbrush

Use a toothbrush with soft, nylon, round-ended bristles that will not scratch and irritate teeth or damage gums.

Treat yourself to a new toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become worn or frayed. A hard, brittle brush can injure your gums.

Children's brushes may need to be replaced more often, as they can wear them out more quickly.

Proper brushing

Step 1: Place the toothbrush beside your teeth at a 45-degree angle.

Step 2: Gently brush a small group of teeth at a time (in a circular motion) until the entire mouth is covered.

Step 3: Brush the outside, inside, the chewing surfaces, and in between each tooth.

Step 4: Gently brush the tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

Step 5: Repeat at least twice daily, especially after meals and snacks.

When and how long to brush?

Generally, brushing is recommended twice a day for at least three to four minutes each time. Patients generally think they are brushing long enough, when, in fact, most people spend less than one minute brushing. In addition, it is generally better to brush 3 to 4 minutes twice a day instead of brushing quickly five or more times throughout the day.

Dentists advise brushing your teeth during the day while at work, school, or play. Keeping a toothbrush handy -- in your desk or backpack -- increases the chances that you will brush during the day.

Which type of toothpaste is best?

Fluoride is the most crucial ingredient in toothpaste. As long as the toothpaste contains fluoride, the brand, nor type (paste, gel, or powder) generally does not matter. All fluoride toothpastes work effectively to fight plaque and cavities, and clean and polish tooth enamel. The brand you choose should bear the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval on the container, which means that adequate evidence of safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in controlled, clinical trials.

Some toothpastes offer tartar control pyrophosphates to prevent the build-up of soft calculus deposits on teeth, while others offer whitening formulas to safely remove stains making teeth brighter and shinier. But, contrary to clever advertising and popular belief, fluoride is the true active ingredient that works the hardest to protect your teeth.

Recommended Toothbrush Care

   Don't share your toothbrush with others, it can spread germs.

   After brushing, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with water, allow it to air-dry, and store it in an upright position.

  If multiple brushes are stored in the same holder, do not allow them to contact each other.

  Do not soak toothbrushes in disinfecting solutions or mouthwash. This may lead to cross-contamination if the same solution is used over a period of time or by multiple users.

  Do not routinely cover or store toothbrushes in closed containers. More bacteria grows in such conditions (a humid environment) than in the open air.

  Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles appear worn or splayed. This is based on the its loss of mechanical effectiveness, not on its bacterial contamination.

  A toothbrush should be kept at least six (6) feet away from a toilet to avoid airborne particles resulting from the flush.

Brushing Benefits

Brushing with toothpaste (particularly toothpaste with fluoride) helps to accomplish the following:

  remove plaque
  resist decay
  promote remineralization
  clean and polish teeth
  remove teeth stains
  freshen breath