Why Brushing Twice a Day With Fluoride Toothpaste Matters

Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste is the foundation of good oral health. The World Health Organization, the American Dental Association and dental research bodies worldwide all recommend this simple routine for people of every age, starting as soon as the first tooth appears.

Why twice a day? Every time we eat, a sticky film of bacteria called plaque builds up on our teeth. These bacteria feed on sugars and release acids that slowly dissolve the enamel — the tooth's hard outer surface. Reviews of the scientific evidence show that brushing twice daily, rather than once or less, significantly lowers the risk of tooth decay, gum recession and periodontitis.

Fluoride is the key ingredient. It strengthens enamel, helps repair early damage (a process called remineralisation) and makes teeth more resistant to acid attacks. Most toothpastes contain between 1000 and 1500 ppm of fluoride, which is safe and effective. For young children, use only a smear (rice-sized amount) under age 3, and a pea-sized amount from ages 3 to 6, with brushing supervised by an adult.

A few practical tips: brush all surfaces of every tooth and gently brush along the gum line, where plaque tends to collect. After brushing, spit out the toothpaste but avoid rinsing with lots of water — leaving a little fluoride behind gives longer protection. Replace your toothbrush (or brush head) every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

Brushing alone cannot reach the surfaces between teeth, so combine it with daily cleaning between the teeth and regular dental check-ups for the best protection.

Sources: World Health Organization (Oral Health fact sheet); American Dental Association (Home Oral Care); U.S. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.