Tilt the brush so that the bristles form a 45-degree angle with the teeth. Use enough pressure so that the bristles splay out slightly and penetrate the groove at the gumline. Brush back and forth horizontally with short strokes and continue for 10 seconds before moving the brush to the next group of teeth. Brushing the top of the tongue will help combat bad breath. After brushing, you can rinse the mouth thoroughly with plain water or a mouthwash.
Dentists recommend getting a new one every month.
Brushing doesn't reach surfaces between teeth or between the gum and teeth. To banish plaque from these areas, you need to floss either before or after brushing. Or ask your dentist or hygienist for a recommendation. Snap off an 18-inch piece of floss, and wrap the ends a couple of times around your index fingers. Five or six inches of floss should extend between the fingers.