Key takeaways
- Brush twice daily for two minutes.
- Use a soft brush at 45 degrees.
- Clean between teeth once a day.
- Spit, don't rinse after brushing.
- Replace your brush every 3 months.
Most people brush every day, but few use the technique dentists recommend. Here's how to get the most from your routine.
Brushing step by step
Angle and pressure
Hold a soft-bristled brush at 45 degrees towards the gumline and use gentle, short circular strokes. Scrubbing hard can wear enamel and irritate gums.
Cover every surface
Brush outer, inner and chewing surfaces of every tooth, spending about 30 seconds per quarter of your mouth.
Finish well
Brush or scrape your tongue, then spit out excess toothpaste without rinsing so fluoride can keep working.
Common mistakes to avoid
| Mistake | Better habit |
|---|---|
| Brushing too hard | Gentle pressure, soft bristles |
| Brushing under one minute | Use a 2-minute timer |
| Rinsing straight after | Spit, don't rinse |
| Skipping between teeth | Floss or interdental brushes daily |
| Old, frayed brush | Replace every 3 months |
Flossing the right way
Use about 45 cm of floss, wrap it around your fingers and slide it gently between teeth. Curve it into a C-shape against each tooth and move up and down below the gumline. Interdental brushes or water flossers are good alternatives. Oradentum supports gums, teeth and breath from within as a complement to this routine, never a replacement.
Sources
- American Dental Association – "Brushing your teeth" and "Floss/interdental cleaners."
- NHS – "How to keep your teeth clean."
- Mayo Clinic – "Oral health: brush up on dental care basics."
Common questions
How long should I brush my teeth?
Two minutes, twice a day.
Should I floss before or after brushing?
Either works; many dentists suggest flossing first so fluoride reaches between teeth.
Can Oradentum replace brushing?
No. Oradentum complements brushing and flossing; it does not replace them.