A man flossing after brushing his teeth

To keep your teeth and gums healthy, it’s essential to brush at least twice and floss at least once a day. You should brush after every meal to minimize plaque buildup. Doing so helps prevent oral health diseases like tooth decay and gum disease.

How to Brush Properly
  • Step 1: Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle with the bristles facing toward your teeth. Massage the gums and teeth gently, up and down, circularly. The key is to be gentle.
  • Step 2: Make sure you clean all the tooth surfaces, including the chewing surface and on the sides.
  • Step 3: Take your time and brush for a minimum of 2-3 minutes.
  • Step 4: Change up your brushing pattern from time to time. This will ensure you don’t miss the same spots.
  • Step 5: Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush that can fit comfortably in your mouth. Your toothbrush should be replaced every three months to keep the bristles fresh.
How to Floss Properly
  • Step 1: Wind up some floss approximately the length from your shoulder to your finger. Wrap the floss around your index or middle fingers, leaving roughly a couple of inches of space between your hands.
  • Step 2: Holding it tightly, slide the floss between your teeth using a sawing motion. Scrape under your gumline by curving the floss into a C shape.
  • Step 3: Floss both sides of the tooth, and don’t forget to floss your last molars as well. Make sure you use a new section of the floss, so it stays clean.
  • Step 4: Floss before you brush – It’s more effective this way.