Oral health: Brush up on dental care basics

Oral health: Brush up on dental care basics

Oral health begins with clean teeth. Get daily dental care tips, from brushing and flossing to recognizing oral health problems.

By Mayo Clinic staff

Too tired to brush your teeth? Too busy to floss? If you're tempted to skip these daily chores, remember that your smile depends on these simple dental care habits. Know how to promote oral health — and when to report oral health problems to your dentist.

Brushing for oral health

Oral health begins with clean teeth. Consider these brushing basics from the American Dental Association:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day. When you brush, don't rush. Take enough time to do a thorough job.

• Use the proper equipment. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Consider using an electric or battery-operated toothbrush, especially if you have arthritis or other problems that make it difficult to brush effectively.

• Practice good technique. Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle against your teeth and brush with short back-and-forth motions. Remember to brush the inside and chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as your tongue. Avoid vigorous or harsh scrubbing, which can irritate your gums.

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