Parodontax brush

A suitable toothbrush has soft bristles and a small head; technique and gentle gumline cleaning matter more than a brand name.

A manual brush removes plaque through bristle contact, while an electric brush uses powered oscillation or vibration to help move the bristles. Either type can clean well when it reaches the gumline, inner tooth surfaces, and chewing grooves.

Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, angle the bristles toward the gumline, and make small gentle movements on each tooth surface. Clean between teeth with floss or an interdental brush where the spaces allow it.

Book an examination for bleeding that continues, gum recession, persistent bad breath, tooth sensitivity, or plaque that remains despite careful brushing. A professional cleaning may be needed when hardened calculus cannot be removed at home.

Ask which bristle firmness, head size, and interdental tool suit your gums and tooth spacing. Ask the dentist to watch your technique and show where plaque remains with a disclosing tablet.