Plaque is a film of bacteria that coats your teeth if you don't brush them properly. It contributes to gum disease and tooth decay. Tooth brushing stops plaque building up. Try to make sure you brush every surface of all your teeth.

When should I brush my teeth?

Brush your teeth for about two minutes in the morning and the last thing at night before you go to bed.

Should I use an electric or manual toothbrush?

It doesn't matter whether you use an electric or manual toothbrush. They're both equally as good, as long as you brush all the surfaces of all your teeth and you use fluoride toothpaste. However, some people find it easier to clean their teeth thoroughly with an electric toothbrush.

Have regular dental check-ups 

Have regular check-ups with your dentist. Don't put off going for a check-up. Detecting problems early can mean they're easier to treat. If problems are not treated, they may lead to damage that is harder, or even impossible, to repair.

Using Your Tongue Cleaner

You can clean your tongue either before or after you brush your teeth. Your tongue is sensitive, so it's important to be gentle and not to press the cleaner too forcefully into your tongue. Here are a few more general cleaning tips:

· Rinse your tongue cleaner before and after using it to remove bacteria and food debris that may be present.

· Start cleaning at the back of your tongue, and work your way forward.

· Scrape and clean the entire top and side surfaces of your tongue, not just the center.

· If you use a tongue brush, move it the same way you moved the tongue cleaner from the back of the tongue to the front of the tongue. You may have to use this method a few times in order to adequately clean your entire tongue.

· Rinse the tongue brush or tongue scraper off after you use it to remove bacteria and any food debris from the areas of the tongue you cleaned.

· Rinse your mouth after cleaning your tongue.