What to know first
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between teeth regularly, aiming for once a day.
- Routine dental check-ups help tailor care to your cavity and gum-disease risk.
Build the routine
Brush every tooth surface and the gumline twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Use gentle pressure and replace a worn brush head. Cleaning between teeth with floss, an interdental brush, a pick, or a water flosser helps remove plaque from areas bristles do not reach.
The best interdental tool depends on spacing, dental work, dexterity, and gum health. A dentist or hygienist can demonstrate a technique that is effective without injuring the gums.
Adjust for your risk
Dry mouth, diabetes, tobacco use, braces, implants, and a history of frequent cavities or gum disease can change what you need. A dental professional may recommend more frequent visits or additional fluoride measures.
Bleeding that persists, tooth pain, swelling, a sore that does not heal, or a loose adult tooth should not be managed only with a new consumer product. Arrange dental evaluation.
Sources and further reading
This article is independently written from the linked public guidance. Open each source to review the original wording, context, and latest update.