The two-minute routine: brushing and flossing, done well

Brushing: time, angle and toothpaste

Dental associations suggest brushing twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. Hold the brush at a slight angle toward the gumline and use small, gentle strokes. Spend time on every surface: outer, inner and chewing. A pea-sized dab of toothpaste is plenty for an adult.

Pressure matters less than you think

Scrubbing hard does not clean better and can wear away gum tissue over time. If the bristles on your brush splay out within weeks, you are probably pressing too hard. Many electric brushes beep or pause when pressure is too high, which some people find helpful.

The part people skip: between the teeth

A brush cannot reach the tight spaces between teeth, where plaque likes to settle. Cleaning between your teeth once a day helps. String floss, floss picks, interdental brushes and water flossers all work for some people. The best tool is the one you will actually use.

• Slide floss gently up and down each side of the tooth, curving it into a “C”.
• Do not snap it into the gums.
• A little bleeding at first can mean gums are inflamed. It often settles after a week or two of regular cleaning.

When to swap your brush

Replace your toothbrush or electric brush head about every three to four months, after an illness, or when the bristles are bent. Rinse it after use and let it air dry upright, rather than keeping it in a closed container.

Ask your own dentist

Your mouth is not average. If you have braces, implants, bridges or sensitive gums, your dentist or hygienist can show you the tools and technique that fit you best.