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From the foundation’s guide

Brush, floss, rinse.

Ali Ammad wrote this for people starting a routine. A dentist still needs to see you. This is the daily part.

Brushing

  1. 1Use a soft brush with a head small enough to reach the back teeth.
  2. 2Wet it and use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
  3. 3Hold the brush at about 45 degrees to the gumline.
  4. 4Brush the front, back, and chewing surfaces with a small circular motion. Use an up-and-down stroke on the backs of the front teeth.
  5. 5Brush your tongue.
  6. 6Spit. Rinse the brush and stand it up to dry.
  7. 7Do this twice a day.

Flossing

  1. 1Wind a length of floss around your middle fingers, with a couple of inches to work with. A floss pick is fine.
  2. 2Slide the floss between the teeth. Do not snap it down onto the gum.
  3. 3Curve it into a C against the tooth and go just under the gumline.
  4. 4Use a clean section for the next tooth.
  5. 5Once a day is enough. Before bed is a good time.

Mouthwash

  1. 1Pick a rinse for the problem you actually have: breath, sensitivity, or gums. Read the bottle. They are not all used the same way.
  2. 2Rinse with water first if you just ate.
  3. 3Swish for as long as the label says, including the tongue. Spit. Do not swallow it.
  4. 4A rinse does not replace brushing and flossing.