Brushing

Brushing your teeth too vigorously, or using a hard-bristled brush, can cause your gums to recede and expose the root surfaces of your teeth. Gum recession is one of the main causes of tooth sensitivity so it's crucial that you know how to brush your teeth properly.

The following advice should be suitable for most patients, but always ask your dentist for advice on the best toothbrush and brushing technique for you.

How long should I spend brushing my teeth?

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day - preferably after meals - and it should take about 3 minutes to do it thoroughly and properly.

What's the best way to brush my teeth?

1. Squeeze a small amount (about the size of pea) of fluoride toothpaste onto your brush
2. To clean your back teeth, tilt the bristles at 45 degrees - so that the tips sit in the join between your teeth and gums - and gently brush back and forth on each surface of the tooth
3. To clean your front teeth, hold the brush vertically and brush the front and back of each tooth in a gentle up and down motion
4. Gently brush the surface of your tongue to help keep your breath fresh and reduce bacteria
5. Rinse your mouth and clean your brush thoroughly

What type of brush should I use?

Soft bristled brushes are kinder to gums and can help prevent teeth becoming sensitive.

Synthetic bristles harbour fewer bacteria so they are generally preferable to natural bristles.

Never use a worn out brush – replace it every three months, or whenever the bristles begin to spread.