The right way to brush — twice a day, every day.

Brushing seems simple, yet most adults do it wrong. The American Dental Association recommends brushing for two full minutes, twice a day, with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. The goal isn't just to scrub — it's to gently disrupt the bacterial film that forms along the gumline.

The Bass technique, in 4 steps

Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. Use short, vibrating strokes — almost like a gentle massage — focusing on two teeth at a time. Move methodically across the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces. Finish with light strokes on your tongue to remove odor-causing bacteria.

Replace your brush every 3 months, or sooner if the bristles fray. Electric brushes with a 2-minute timer can make this easier, especially for kids and seniors. And remember — brushing complements flossing, it doesn't replace it.

Common mistakes to avoid

Brushing too hard wears down enamel and causes gum recession. Rinsing with water immediately after brushing washes away protective fluoride — instead, just spit. And never brush within 30 minutes of acidic foods or drinks; softened enamel is vulnerable to abrasion.