# How to Brush and Floss Properly: A Simple Daily Routine

By Dr. Sneha, BDS, MDS (Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics), The Dental Corner, Keshav Puram, New Delhi. Published 2026-11-07.

**Short answer:** Brush for two minutes twice a day with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth once a day, and see your dentist every six months.

## Choosing your tools

- **Toothbrush:** soft bristles and a small head. Hard bristles damage gums and enamel.
- **Toothpaste:** any fluoride toothpaste. A pea-sized amount is enough for an adult.
- **Between the teeth:** floss, or interdental brushes if you have gaps or a bridge.
- Change your brush every three months, or sooner if the bristles spread.

## How to brush

1. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line.
2. Use small, gentle circles. Do not scrub side to side.
3. Clean the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces and the chewing surfaces of every tooth.
4. For the inside of the front teeth, hold the brush upright and use up-and-down strokes.
5. Take two full minutes.
6. Brush your tongue gently.
7. Spit out the paste but do not rinse with a lot of water. Leaving a little fluoride on the teeth protects them.

## How to floss

1. Take about 45 cm of floss and wind it around your middle fingers.
2. Slide it gently between two teeth.
3. Curve it into a C shape against one tooth and move it up and down, going slightly under the gum.
4. Repeat on the neighbouring tooth, then move to the next gap with a clean section.

A little bleeding in the first week is common and stops as the gums get healthier.

## When to brush

- In the morning
- Last thing at night, after which only water

Night brushing matters most, because saliva flow drops while you sleep.

## Common mistakes

- Brushing too hard
- Brushing for less than a minute
- Skipping the inner surfaces and back teeth
- Brushing immediately after acidic food or drink
- Using a toothpick in place of floss

## Food habits that help

- Limit sugary and sticky snacks between meals
- Rinse with water after tea, coffee or sweets
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid tobacco in every form

## Do I need a mouthwash?

It is optional. It can freshen breath but does not replace brushing and flossing.

## Book a visit

If you have questions about this, we are happy to help. Consultation at The Dental Corner, Keshav Puram starts at ₹100. Call or WhatsApp +91 80765 81730.

*This article is general information and does not replace an examination by a dentist.*