Switching from a manual brush to an electric one changes how you brush. You no longer need to scrub. As the Oral Health Foundation puts it, a power brush provides a lot of cleaning action with very little movement from you, although you do need to position it correctly.
The two-minute routine
- Add toothpaste. The NHS advises adults to use a toothpaste with at least 1,350ppm fluoride.
- Put the brush in your mouth before you switch it on. It saves toothpaste on the mirror.
- Guide the head slowly from tooth to tooth. Hold it on each tooth for a moment, then move on. Let the brush do the work.
- Cover every surface. The NHS says to brush the inside surfaces, the outside surfaces and the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
- Follow the timer. Most electric brushes prompt you every 30 seconds. Split your mouth into four areas, upper left, upper right, lower left and lower right, and move on at each prompt.
- Go gently. Use light pressure. If your brush has a pressure sensor, it will tell you when you're pressing too hard.
- Spit, don't rinse. The NHS advises against rinsing straight after brushing, because it washes away the fluoride left on your teeth.
When to brush
The NHS recommends brushing twice a day for about two minutes: last thing at night before you go to bed, and on one other occasion.
What about mouthwash?
If you use mouthwash, the NHS suggests choosing a different time of day, such as after lunch. Using it straight after brushing washes the fluoride away, even if it's a fluoride mouthwash.
After you finish
Rinse the brush head under the tap, give the handle a quick wipe and stand it upright to dry.
Looking for a brush with a timer and pressure sensor? Browse our oral care range.
This article is for general information only and isn't a substitute for advice from your dentist. If you have any concerns about your teeth or gums, speak to your dental practice.
Sources: NHS: How to keep your teeth clean; Oral Health Foundation: Caring for my teeth
