This acid can attach tooth enamel, causing decay. As well, plaque can irritate and infect your gums. If gum infection develops below the gum line, it can spread to the roots of your teeth, and the tissue and jaw bone that support your teeth. This is periodontal disease, a major cause of tooth loss - and loss of healthy smiles. You probably brush your teeth automatically every day.
Most people use their toothbrush and toothpaste for less than a minute each time.
Although it helps their mouth feel fresher, superficial brushing doesn't remove all the particles of food or the bacterial plaque that live on the teeth, close to the gums. Thorough brushing takes three minutes or more - longer than one song on the radio. Use just enough toothpaste to barely cover the bristles on your brush. Now starting at the back on one side, angle your toothbrush so the bristles are touching the gum line. With the head tilted slightly so that the bristle can splay over and under the gum collar, gently massage the gums with several vibrating strokes.