Looking after your teeth is really important, and knowing how to look after them can help prevent dental decay and other dental problems.
Top tips for brushing teeth
- Brush your teeth twice a day (morning and before bed)
- Brush for two minutes (you could use a timer to help or the NHS APP BrushDJ)
- Use a pea sized amount or smear of fluoride 1350ppm – 1500ppm toothpaste on your toothbrush.
- Brush all surfaces of your teeth (inside, outside and chewing surfaces to make sure they are all clean)
- Don’t rinse your toothbrush with water whilst cleaning!
- Spit out excess toothpaste after brushing and rinse your brush underwater
- Once you have finished brushing your teeth, DO NOT rinse your mouth with water (this will wash away the toothpaste which is there to protect your teeth)
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet will help you keep your teeth strong and healthy!
- Try to drink water rather than fizzy drinks or squash, as water reduces the attacks on your teeth.
- If you want to know how much sugar you should have for your age, check out the sugar calculator at change 4 life
Other handy hints for you:
- You should try to visit your dentist every six months.
- If you don’t have a dentist you can get your parent or carer to register you with one.
- If you are struggling to find a local dentist then your school nurse can help with this
