The best time to brush teeth is after meals. Choose a toothbrush with a small head for better access to back teeth. Soft bristles are kinder on your gums.

Fluoride helps to harden tooth enamel and reduces your risk of decay.

Tooth brushing should take between two and three minutes.

Use a slow and gentle sawing motion.

Food acids soften tooth material and dissolve the minerals in tooth enamel, causing holes (cavities or caries). In severe cases, teeth may be 'eaten' right down to the gum.

Wear a mouthguard or full-face helmet when playing sports.

If you use them to crack nuts, remove bottle tops or rip open packaging, you risk chipping or even breaking your teeth.