How to Brush Your Teeth

1. Step1

   Squeeze some toothpaste onto a soft-bristled toothbrush. Your toothpaste should contain fluoride and bear the American Dental Association (ADA) seal.

2. Step2

   Use short, back-and-forth brushing motions to clean the outside and inside surfaces of the teeth, as well as the chewing surfaces. Follow with up-and-down motions to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth.

3. Step3

   Brush along the gum line. This is extremely important, as gum disease starts here. Brush gently to avoid damaging your gums.

4. Step4

   Make sure to brush your back molars, where bacteria like to hide.

5. Step5

   Brush your tongue to remove bacteria that cause bad breath.

6. Step6

   Spit out the toothpaste and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash.

7. Step7

   Try to floss at least once a day, since most adult cavities occur between teeth. The most important time to floss is before going to bed. Floss before or after you brush either is fine. Guide the floss between the teeth and use it to gently rub the side of each tooth.