How to Brush and Floss Properly: A Simple Daily Routine
The right way to brush, clean between your teeth and care for your mouth every day, in five minutes.
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
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line.
- Use small, gentle circles. Do not scrub side to side.
- Clean the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces and the chewing surfaces of every tooth.
- For the inside of the front teeth, hold the brush upright and use up-and-down strokes.
- Take two full minutes.
- Brush your tongue gently.
- 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
- Take about 45 cm of floss and wind it around your middle fingers.
- Slide it gently between two teeth.
- Curve it into a C shape against one tooth and move it up and down, going slightly under the gum.
- 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.
Consultation at The Dental Corner, Keshav Puram starts at ₹100.
A specialist in root canal treatment and restorative dentistry with over 10 years of clinical experience. She founded The Dental Corner in Keshav Puram in 2024.
About Dr. Sneha
