How to Clean Your Teeth and Gums

There is a right way to brush and floss your teeth. Every day:

Gently brush your teeth on all sides with a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste.
Use small circular motions and short back-and-forth strokes.
Brush carefully and gently along your gum line.
Lightly brush your tongue to help keep your mouth clean.
Clean around your teeth with dental floss. Careful flossing removes plaque and leftover food that a toothbrush can't reach.
Rinse after you floss.

People with arthritis or other conditions that limit hand motion may find it hard to hold and use a toothbrush. Some helpful tips are:

Use an electric or battery-operated toothbrush.
Slide a bicycle grip or foam tube over the handle of the toothbrush.
Buy a toothbrush with a larger handle.
Attach the toothbrush handle to your hand with a wide elastic band.

See your dentist if brushing or flossing causes your gums to bleed or hurts your mouth. If you have trouble flossing, a floss holder may help. Ask your dentist to show you the right way to floss.