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Brushing your teeth
Brushing removes plaque. Doing it well, twice a day, is the most important thing you can do for your mouth.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. It does not replace a check by a dentist or doctor. If you are worried, contact a dental professional.
How to brush
- Brush twice a day for about 2 minutes. Make one of them last thing at night.
- Use fluoride toothpaste. Adults: at least 1,350 ppm fluoride (check the tube).
- Tilt the brush toward the gum line, at about 45 degrees.
- Use small, gentle movements. Do a few teeth at a time.
- Clean the outside, inside and chewing sides of every tooth.
- Spit out the extra toothpaste. Do not rinse with water. Rinsing washes the fluoride away.
Which brush?
- A small head with soft or medium bristles suits most people.
- Electric or manual both work if you clean every surface. Some people find electric easier.
- Change your brush every 2 to 3 months.
Do not brush hard. Pressing hard can wear teeth and hurt gums.
When to see a dentist
- Your gums bleed often when you brush.
- Brushing hurts certain teeth.
Related: Cleaning between teeth · Fluoride
Sources
Paraphrased in plain words. Links checked and accessed 21 Oct 2026.
- NHS (UK). “How to keep your teeth clean”. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/how-to-keep-your-teeth-clean/ (accessed 21 Oct 2026).
- Terveyskirjasto / Duodecim. “Hampaiden harjaus (tooth brushing)”. https://www.terveyskirjasto.fi/trv00021 (accessed 21 Oct 2026).
- NHS (UK). “Dental abscess”. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dental-abscess/ (accessed 21 Oct 2026).
- Oral Health Foundation. “Sensitive teeth”. https://www.dentalhealth.org/sensitive-teeth (accessed 21 Oct 2026).