Your oral health starts with clean teeth. Keeping the area where your teeth meet your gums clean can help prevent gum disease. Keeping your tooth surfaces clean will help you prevent cavities. Consider these brushing basics from the American Dental Association: 

• Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled brush. The size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth, allowing you to reach all areas easily. 
• Replace your toothbrush every three or four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won’t do an excellent job of cleaning your teeth.  
• Make sure to use an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste.
• The proper brushing technique is to: 
• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.  
• Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes. 
• Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth. 
• To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes. 
• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

Taking care of your oral health is essential, starting with clean teeth. Regular brushing using the proper technique and an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste can help prevent gum disease and cavities. Remember to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Following these brushing basics from the American Dental Association, you can maintain good oral hygiene and keep your smile healthy and bright.