For effective removal of plaque and food particles, you should brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day, with either a manual or electric toothbrush.
The ideal brushing technique is to hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth while brushing in a circular or elliptical motion. You should brush just firm enough to reach in between your teeth, and gentle enough to not hurt your gums – and cause them to recede. Begin brushing at the gumline, by placing the toothbrush halfway on the gums and work your way down the tooth. Remember to brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as the outer and inner surfaces as well as your tongue.
An important part of your routine oral hygiene is regular flossing. Flossing removes plaque and food particles in areas where the bristles of your toothbrush cannot reach – in between your teeth. By skipping flossing, you’re missing out on cleaning 2 out of 5 tooth surfaces – that is 40%! Remember to replace your toothbrush when the bristles become frayed or after an illness – as they become ineffective and may harbor harmful bacteria!
