Modern medical research has shown that brushing teeth properly can prevent cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal, or gum disease, which causes at least one-third of adult tooth loss. If teeth are not brushed correctly and frequently, it could lead to the calcification of saliva minerals, forming tartar.Fact: date=March 2007

Brushing one's teeth has long been considered an important part of dental care. As long ago as 3000 B.C. ancient Egyptians constructed crude toothbrushes from twigs and leaves to clean their teeth. Similarly, other cultures such as the Greeks, Romans, and Indians cleaned their teeth with twigs. Some would fray one end of the twig so that it could penetrate between the teeth more effectively.

Brushing process

Brushing is essential for cleaning teeth and gums effectively. Use a toothbrush with soft, nylon, round-ended bristles that will not scratch and irritate teeth or damage gums.

• Place toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.
• Move the brush up and down gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
• Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
• Use the "toe" of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.
• Brush tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

Toothbrush

Toothpaste

See also

• Toothpaste
• Tooth
• Dental care

External links

• Brushing and Flossing Properly