A lot of people are still not aware that the best way to avoid tooth decay is to maintain a proper oral hygiene. Brushing of the teeth should be done at least twice per day. In addition to this, people should use fluoride toothpaste while doing that. However, it is important to know the proper way of brushing and a lot of people are not aware of that. There are some tips that will help people brush their teeth properly. For instance, when a person places the head of the brush against the teeth, he or she should tilt the bristle tips to a 45-degree angle against the gumline. The brush should be moved in circular movements a couple of times for every tooth. Both upper and lower outer surfaces of each tooth should be brushed. A person should then repeat this method for the inside surfaces of the teeth. In order to do that, a person should tilt the brush vertically and then make a couple of circular strokes using the front part of the brush. The biting surface of the teeth needs to be properly brushed as well. Brushing the tongue is important as well. Not only will it improve the freshness of the breath but it will also get rid of the bacteria in the mouth, if there are any. Another important part of the oral hygiene is the toothbrush. People should replace them often because they tend to wear out. Once they are worn out, they become less effective. A new toothbrush should be purchased every three months. There is also an electric toothbrush. People who prefer them to the ordinary ones should know that the best electric toothbrushes are the ones in which the head has a rotating oscillation action. Flossing is an important part of the oral hygiene as well because it can reach the places a toothbrush cannot. For the flossing techniques, a person can talk to his or her dentist. Apart from the brushing and flossing, people can also use mouthwash in order to better the oral hygiene. The foods that a person eats affect the oral hygiene quite a lot. People should not consume food and drink that is high in fermented carbohydrates. For instance, fizzy drinks, coffee with sugar, chocolate, sweets, cakes and white bread should be avoided. Cheese, fruits, vegetables and unsweetened coffee and tea are far better alternatives.