Ans. To maintain the oral hygiene one should follow the correct tooth brushing method. This habit should be incorporated in the daily routine right from the childhood. We need to choose the right toothbrush and suitable toothpaste depending on your age and the condition of the teeth and gums.

Toothbrush: Size of the brush should be according to the size of the mouth. Your oral hygienist will be able to advice you regarding this. Bristles should be soft. Brush should be change after every 3 months.

Steps for brushing correctly:

• Brushing should start with the outer surface of the upper and lower teeth.
• Brush should be held at 45-degree angle with the gum line, move the brush gently with back and forth motion.
• Brush the inner surface of the teeth with 45-degree angle, back and forth and out in short soft strokes because you don't want to scrape the enamel off.
• Then clean the chewing surface with some pressure using a back and forth stroke and very light circular motions to remove any residual food debris.
• Clean your tongue to remove odour-causing bacteria.

Golden rules: You must brush twice a day. Duration should be not more than 2 minutes. Amount of toothpaste should be about the size of pea.

Things to keep in mind

• Don't be too harsh on the teeth. Use still but smooth motions to clean the gums and teeth.
• Don't brush in an horizontal motion like running a wood saw
• Use gentle motions on the tongue
• Keep the toothbrush clean and dry at all times.