Step 1: In a 45-degree angle, place toothbrush bristles along the gumline. Make sure the bristles touch the gumline and the surface of the tooth.

Step 2: Brush the exterior tooth surfaces of 2-3 teeth in a gentle vibrating back and forth rolling motion. Then move your way to the next 2-3 teeth in the same manner.

Step 3: Continue brushing teeth in a 45-degree angle. Bristles should contact the tooth surface and gumline. Brush in a back, forth, and rolling motion around inner tooth surfaces gently.

Step 4: Lean brush vertically behind the front set of teeth. Stroke a few times in an up and down motion (use the front half of the toothbrush).

Step 5: Put the toothbrush up against the biting surface of the teeth and gently scrub in a back and forth motion.

Step 6: Place the toothbrush on the tongue and brush from back to front to remove bacteria causing odor.

Make sure you change your toothbrush if it’s older than 3 months. Most people are unaware that harmful bacteria can thrive on toothbrush handles and bristles. Using an old toothbrush can attract various dental infections including: cold sores, the herpes virus and the flu virus.