basics, gum-health
Oral hygiene basics (adult)
A practical routine for brushing, interdental cleaning, fluoride, and the most common mistakes.
Daily routine (adult)
- Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste for about 2 minutes.
- Clean between teeth daily (floss or interdental brushes) to disrupt plaque where brushes miss.
- After brushing: spit, don’t rinse so fluoride stays on teeth longer.
Quality beats force. Hard scrubbing can irritate gums and wear enamel. Use gentle, systematic strokes.
Technique checklist
- Angle the bristles toward the gumline and brush every surface: outer, inner, chewing.
- Spend extra time on the gumline where plaque accumulates.
- Replace your toothbrush (or electric head) when bristles fray—typically every 3–4 months.
Common mistakes
- Rinsing right after brushing (reduces fluoride exposure).
- Brushing too hard or too fast (less effective + more irritation).
- Only brushing and never cleaning between teeth.
When to see a dentist
- Bleeding gums that persist after 1–2 weeks of improved cleaning.
- Tooth pain, swelling, pus, fever, or trauma.
- Ongoing sensitivity or bad breath despite routine care.