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Tooth Structure

The part of the tooth that is usually visible over the gum is called the crown and the part that is attached to the gum is called the root. Read More »

YOUR ORAL HEALTH : ORAL HEALTH TOPICS

Brushing

Brushing helps remove a sticky film of bacteria called plaque. Fight tooth decay and gum disease by brushing teeth twice a day. Brush every day, morning and night, for two minutes.

Selecting a Toothbrush

Select a toothbrush with a small head. This will help you reach the back teeth and especially the areas between the tongue and lower back molars. Hard and stiff bristles can damage your teeth and gums. Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles. Change your toothbrush every three months or soon after the bristles start to wear out to ensure you always get a proper clean and help avoid harmful bacteria building up on the bristles.

Positioning the Brush

Toothbrush should be placed at a 450 angle to your gums. Brush gently and thoroughly by moving the brush back and forth in short, tooth-wide strokes. Be systematic and make sure that all areas of the teeth and gums are covered.

 An easy way to cover all teeth is by dividing upper and lower teeth separately into front, left and right areas.  Brush each area with short, tooth-wide strokes. Brush all the surfaces of all your teeth including the inner tooth surfaces and the chewing surfaces. Use the "toe" of the brush for the inner front tooth surfaces. And don't forget to brush the top surface of your tongue.

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