Dental care done right: brushing, floss and check-ups

In short: Brushing twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between the teeth daily and going for regular check-ups protects best against tooth decay and gum inflammation.

In more detail: Decay arises when bacteria in plaque convert sugar into acid that attacks enamel. Fluoride makes enamel more resistant.

In Depth

• Brushing: Morning and evening, about two minutes each. All surfaces: outside, inside, chewing surfaces. Small circular or vibrating movements, without pressure. Pressing too hard harms the gums.
• Toothpaste: With fluoride (for adults about 1,400 to 1,500 ppm). A pea-sized amount, spit out after brushing, barely rinse.
• Brush: Soft to medium bristles. Electric toothbrushes with a timer and pressure control make thorough brushing easier. Replace every one to three months.
• Between the teeth: Clean daily with floss or interdental brushes, because the brush reaches only part of the surfaces there.
• Tongue: Clean with a tongue scraper or the brush; this reduces bad breath.
• Diet: Less sugar and fewer sugary snacks or drinks. What matters is the frequency of sugar exposure, not just the amount. Acidic drinks attack the enamel. Do not brush directly afterwards, wait about 30 minutes.
• Check-ups: Twice a year at the dentist. Have tartar removed, professional cleaning as needed.
• Children: Brush with fluoride children’s toothpaste from the first tooth. Parents brush afterwards until writing works reliably.
• Bleeding gums: Usually a sign of inflammation from plaque. Do not stop brushing, but become more thorough and have it checked.

See also: hidden sugar

General information, not medical advice. For complaints or questions about your situation, talk to a doctor.