Proper Brushing Technique

1. Wet your toothbrush: Start by wetting your toothbrush with cold water.

2. Apply toothpaste: Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to your brush. A toothpaste containing fluoride will be best for remineralising your teeth.

3. Angle your toothbrush: Put your toothbrush up to your teeth at about a 45-degree angle.

4. Brush your teeth: Press firmly but gently, moving the brush in short circular strokes along the gum line. Spend 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth. Be sure to brush the back surfaces of your teeth as well.

5. Brush your tongue: Gently brush your tongue. Bacteria can build up on your tongue just as they do on your teeth.

6. Rinse: Once done, spit out the toothpaste and rinse your mouth. Be sure to rinse your brush as well, then place it upright in a container or holder.

Remember, experts recommend brushing for at least two minutes twice daily. This brushing time means spending at least 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth (top left, top right, bottom right, bottom left). If you want to ensure you spend enough time brushing, set a timer. Many electric toothbrushes have built-in timers.

It’s important to have clean teeth before bedtime because while you’re asleep, there is less saliva in your mouth to fight any bacteria that remain. If you have any questions about brushing technique or frequency, it’s best to consult with your dentist.

1. Brush Twice a Day: Always brush twice a day, preferably first thing in the morning and again right before you go to sleep.

2. Brush for Two Minutes: Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, making sure to give each part of your mouth equal attention.

3. Use the Right Technique: Hold your toothbrush at about a 45-degree angle, and be sure to brush beneath the gum line. Use small, circular, up-and-down motions instead of shoving the brush back and forth.

4. Don’t Neglect Your Tongue: Plaque can also build up on your tongue. Not only can this lead to bad mouth odour, but it can lead to other oral health problems. Gently brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth.

5. Use a Fluoride Toothpaste: No matter which version you choose, make sure it contains fluoride. Fluoride is a leading defence against tooth decay. It works by fighting germs that can lead to decay, as well as providing a protective barrier for your teeth.

6. Floss Daily: Flossing is an incredibly important, yet often neglected, part of oral health. Dental floss can reach the tiny crevices between your teeth that a toothbrush can’t.

7. Consider Mouthwash: Mouthwash helps in three ways: It reduces the amount of acid in the mouth, cleans hard-to-brush areas in and around the gums, and re-mineralizes the teeth.

Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene is not just about brushing but also about using the right techniques and tools. If you have any questions about brushing technique or frequency, it’s best to consult with your dentist.

Toothpaste is made up of a variety of ingredients, each serving a specific purpose. Here are some of the most common ingredients found in toothpaste:

1. Fluoride: This is the most common and effective ingredient in toothpaste. Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen the enamel on your teeth, making them less susceptible to cavities.

2. Abrasives: These help remove food debris and surface stains from teeth. Common abrasives include calcium carbonate, dehydrated silica gels, and hydrated aluminium oxides.

3. Flavors: These are added to make the toothpaste taste pleasant. Common flavouring ingredients include sweetening agents, such as saccharin or sorbitol.

4. Humectant: These ingredients keep your toothpaste from drying out and becoming crumbly.

5. Detergents: These are added to create foam and improve the cleansing power of the toothpaste.

6. Surfactants: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a common surfactant present in toothpaste. It improves the cleansing power of the toothpaste.

7. Hydrogen Peroxide: This acts as a bleaching agent in toothpaste and has proven effective for whitening teeth.

8. Sodium Bicarbonate: Also known as baking soda, sodium bicarbonate is a mild abrasive in toothpaste. It helps eliminate plaque and leaves teeth clean and shiny.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to check the ingredients list on the toothpaste packaging to ensure it meets your specific oral health needs.