(HealthDayNews) -- Dental care is not just about maintaining a winning white smile. Regular and proper tooth brushing and flossing techniques help keep teeth and gums healthy and prevent gum disease.
The Canadian Dental Association outlines the proper way to brush your teeth:
- Use the same pattern every time you brush. This way you'll avoid missing some teeth.
- Carefully brush all tooth surfaces. Use circular motions as you move the brush over two or three teeth at a time. Back and forth movements can damage your gums.
- Brush for at least three to four minutes. Some dentists suggest brushing for the entire length of a song.
- Change your toothbrush every three to four months.
