TOOTHBRUSHING is such a familiar process that it is easy to forget how crucial it is to oral health and how important it is to brush properly. To prevent tooth decay and gum disease, dentists advise thorough toothbrushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.

The new British Dental Association fact file is available to readers, which highlights importance of proper brushing. It answers questions such as "how often" and "how long" should people brush.

If you would like a copy, please send a stamped addressed envelope marked Toothbrushes and Toothbrushing to Education and Science, British Dental Association, 64 Wimpole Street, London, WIM 8AL.

DIANA SCARROTT, Head, Education and Science Department, British Dental Association.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.