Tips:
Correct brushing
Brushing should last for at least three minutes (keep an eye on the clock - the passage of time can be deceptive), if possible after meals. Dental chewing gum is no substitute for correct brushing. After brushing, rinse the mouth with just a little water. This allows the fluoride content of toothpaste to remain in the mouth for longer - fluoride provides effective protection against tooth decay.
Incorrect: scrubbing up and down
Correct: small circular movements, working from the gum to the crown = from "red to white"
Outer surfaces
The outer surfaces should be cleaned tooth by tooth, always from "red to white". Do not press hard, and pay attention to the dental interstices.
Outer surfaces - front teeth
Brush the incisors edge-to-edge, from left to right, first up, then down,
with small to-and-fro movements
Inner surfaces - top teeth
Brush the inner surfaces tooth by tooth, from "red to white".
Important: avoid scrubbing!
Inner surfaces - bottom teeth
As for inner surfaces of top teeth
Chewing surfaces
For the brushing of the chewing surfaces, firmer pressure can be applied.
Electric toothbrushes are effective, but do not reduce the cleaning time required.
Toothpastes: children's toothpaste may be used up to the age of six
- only use a toothpaste which contains fluoride
- toothpaste should not be excessively abrasive. "Whitening toothpastes" may be hazardous.
Bleeding during brushing
This is a symptom of inflammation. Provided that plaque is thoroughly removed on a daily basis, inflammation and bleeding will disappear within a few days.