People hoping to prevent emergency dentistry should make sure they brush regularly but not too vigorously, one expert has advised.
Dr Ogo Eze told the Guardian that cleaning teeth at least twice a day is essential, but added that he thinks doing so after lunch would also be beneficial in stopping bacterial build-up.
However, he explained scrubbing away at the surfaces could do more harm than good.
"People think receding gums are a sign of gum disease, but it's often a sign of too much scrubbing," Dr Eze commented.
The expert went on to advise people to clean just under the edges of the gums as well as over the tongue in order make sure as much plaque as possible is removed from the mouth.
Colgate states that a soft-bristled, small-headed toothbrush is best for removing debris from the teeth as it can get right to the back of the mouth.