Teeth for Life

At birth people usually have 20 primary (baby) teeth, which often erupt through the gums as early as six months of age.

These teeth are then shed at various times throughout childhood. By age 21, all 32 of the permanent teeth have usually erupted.

LEARN MORE

Getting to know your teeth is fun! Learn all about your teeth with our fun, interactive, and educational diagrams:

  • Anatomy of a Tooth
  • Know Your Teeth

Brushing and Flossing

The intended animation requires a newer version of Adobe Flash® Player. Please visit www.adobe.com to download the latest version.

Brushing: Step 1

Place your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to your gum.

Brushing: Step 2

Brush gently in a circular motion.

Brushing: Step 3

Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.

Brushing: Step 4

Use the tip of your brush for the inner surface of your front teeth.

Flossing: Step 1

Wind about 18 inches of floss around your fingers as shown. Most of it should be wrapped around one finger, and as the floss is used, the other finger takes it up.

Flossing: Step 2

Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide about one inch of floss between your teeth.

Flossing: Step 3

Holding the floss tightly, gently saw the floss between your teeth. Then curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath your gums.

Flossing: Step 4

Slide the floss up and down, repeating for each tooth.

Printable instructions >