Brushing Basics
Brushing your teeth is the most important thing you can do for your dental health. Here is how to do it like a pro:
When to brush: At least twice a day — once in the morning after breakfast and once at night before bed. The bedtime brush is the most important because bacteria work all night while you sleep!
How long to brush: Two full minutes! That is about the length of a short song. Many kids only brush for 30 seconds, which is not enough to clean all your teeth properly.
How much toothpaste: A pea-sized amount for kids. You do not need a lot! Make sure your toothpaste has fluoride, which strengthens your enamel.
The technique:
1. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums
2. Use gentle, small circular motions (not hard scrubbing!)
3. Brush the outside of all teeth
4. Brush the inside of all teeth
5. Brush the chewing surfaces of your back teeth
6. Gently brush your tongue (bacteria live there too!)
7. Spit out the toothpaste but do not rinse with water (the fluoride keeps working)