Since childhood, most of us living in the City of Leeds have been conditioned to brush our teeth twice a day, morning and night. Whilst most of us still stick to this familiar routine, some begin to neglect the importance of dental hygiene, some even forget to brush at all.

There really is more to a toothbrush than just a tool your parents used to ruin you evenings and send you off to bed. Your toothbrush is the most important player in the fight against plaque, the nasty bacteria that can build up inside your mouth and cause a whole host of problems.

Plaque is the leading cause of gum disease, it consists of harmful bacteria that enter the mouth either through the food we eat or the air we breath. Plaque also causes cavities, tooth decay and ultimately tooth loss, all problems that can be avoid if you take the time to brush your teeth correctly.

Brushing your teeth should not be an absent-minded affair; when you are dealing with your dental health, you can never afford to be too careful. Brushing should involve using a good, clean toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste as this works best at removing stubborn plaque. The teeth should be cleaned in small, circular motions both on the surface and behind, do not scrub too aggressively as this may result in a loss of enamel.

In addition to brushing your teeth, it is essential that you also ensure your tongue is clean and free from plaque. Bacteria thrive on the surface of the tongue and are the main cause of bad breath. Taking the time to brush your tongue with the other side of your toothbrush will greatly reduce the amount of bacteria left in your mouth. Once brushing has been completed, dental floss should then be used to access the gaps between the teeth where plaque can escape the threat of the toothbrush.