Journal
Everyday Brushing and Flossing, Done Right
Most of what keeps a mouth healthy between visits happens at home, in two minutes, twice a day.
Brush for the full two minutes
Most people brush for closer to 45 seconds. A timer, or a brush with a built-in one, makes a noticeable difference.
Angle the brush toward the gumline
A slight angle toward where the tooth meets the gum reaches plaque that a flat brushing motion tends to miss.
Floss before you brush, not after
Flossing before brushing loosens debris between teeth, so the toothpaste's fluoride can reach those surfaces too.
Don't rinse immediately after brushing
Spitting out without rinsing leaves a thin layer of fluoride on your teeth a little longer.
This information is general and not a substitute for an examination by a dentist.