A Guide to Toothbrushing

Why is it important to take care of my teeth?

By taking care of your mouth, you are also taking care of your body.

The bacteria in our mouths is called plaque. Plaque is a film of bacteria that coats your teeth. This needs to be removed at least twice a day as this causes gum disease, tooth decay and increases the risk of health conditions such as heart disease, strokes and diabetes.

Tooth brushing stops the plaque building up. Try to make sure you clean every surface of all your teeth, twice a day.

Brush your teeth for 2 minutes last thing before you go to bed and on one other occasion every day with a fluoride toothpaste.

What type of toothpaste should I be using?

It is important to use a toothpaste with the right concentration of fluoride.

Fluoride is a natural mineral found in some foods such as tea and fish. It is added to toothpaste as it is clinically proven to help protect teeth against decay.

Fluoride is added to some toothpastes in different amounts, it is measured in parts per million (ppm).

Check the packaging to find out if your toothpaste contains fluoride by looking for ‘sodium fluoride’ in the ingredients.

• For adults, use a toothpaste that contains at least 1,350(ppm) fluoride.

• For children, they do not need to use special children’s toothpaste, as long as it contains 1,350 to 1,500ppm fluoride and are using the correct amount.

Children under 2 years of age should use a smear of toothpaste and children from 3 to 6 years should use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. 

Make sure children do not lick or eat toothpaste from the tube. Your dentist may advise you or your child to use a toothpaste with a higher concentration of fluoride on prescription, if you need it.

What should I do after brushing?

After brushing your teeth, spit out any excess toothpaste but do not rinse with water or mouthwash. This helps the fluoride toothpaste stay in the mouth longer and therefore strengthens the teeth.

Try not to eat or drink for 30 minutes after brushing as this will wash away any fluoride from the toothpaste and reduce the benefits.

Can I use a mouthwash?

An alcohol free, fluoride mouthwash can be considered if you are over 8 years of age, in addition to brushing twice daily. Mouthwash should be used at a different time of day to brushing to maximise the effects of fluoride.

How do I brush my teeth?

Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints

Patient Experience Team (PET)

We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Team is here to try to resolve your concerns. The office is based at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. Our contact details are:

Telephone: 01642 624719
Freephone: 0800 092 0084
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm
Email: [email protected]

Out of hours

Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.
Telephone: 01642 617617

Patient, Public and People with Lived Experience

We are looking for patients to share their experiences of healthcare and to join our Involvement Bank. Working with the patients, carers, families and the general population we support in making decisions about their care can lead to better health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction and a better overall experience. We want to listen and work with you in shaping the future of your healthcare services. To find out more about the Involvement Bank go to our website or contact us at:

Website: www.nth.nhs.uk/about/community/people-with-lived-experience
Email: [email protected]

Data protection and use of patient information

The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.

Telephone: 01642 383551

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet feedback

This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team at:

Email: [email protected]