Tooth Brushing Mistakes You Could Be Making
We all know it’s healthy to brush our teeth every day. But there are some do’s and don’ts when it comes to brushing the right way. Brushing properly and consistently between your regular visits to the dentist can make all the difference in preserving a healthy smile.
Let’s look at some of the most common mistakes people make while they’re brushing. The good news is that you can correct your technique easily enough and brush your very best! And remember, seeing your dentist for a professional cleaning regularly is also always important.
Cutting Time Short
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) recommends brushing your teeth twice daily for 2-3 minutes each time. You need to brush for at least the full 2 minutes to get that shiny, polished smile. It turns out that average brushing time hovers around only 45 seconds, so time your brush sessions to make sure your teeth are getting a full clean.
Many electric toothbrushes now come with built-in timers to keep you honest. But you can use your watch or cell phone to time 45 seconds for brushing each quadrant of your mouth.
Choosing the Wrong Time
When are the best times for brushing your teeth? Typically, in the morning when you wake up and before going to bed are the most ideal times for tooth brushing. The primary purpose of brushing is to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth. Brushing before you fall asleep cleans your mouth from the day’s last meal and helps prevent plaque from forming while you sleep.
It’s recommended that you brush your teeth before eating breakfast. Brushing kick-starts saliva production, which is a natural bacteria killer. If you must brush after breakfast, wait at least 30 minutes, as you should after any meal.
Improper Technique
Poor tooth brushing technique is a mistake that some people make every time they brush. Here are the correct steps according to the Canadian Dental Association:
- Make sure to use a soft-bristled brush that can reach the very back of your molars.
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle where your teeth meet your gums. Brush in gentle small circles.
- Brush every surface. This means the chewing surface of each tooth, the cheek side, and the tongue side.
Brushing Too Hard
Brushing harder does not mean brushing better! In fact, overly aggressive tooth brushing can damage your enamel. Enamel is the layer on the outside of our teeth that protects them from physical and chemical damage.
When you brush with a lot of force it can wear down this protective layer. This mistake can lead to enamel erosion. Enamel erosion can make your teeth sensitive and more susceptible to tooth decay. So brush gently, using proper technique, and don’t try to intensively scrub your teeth.
Using the Wrong Brush
If your gums feel irritated or sore after brushing and you’ve already toned down your technique, you might need a different brush. Many people prefer a soft-bristled toothbrush, especially if they have sensitive gums or tend to brush too hard. The CDA has approved some toothbrushes that get the job done right.
Your toothbrush should be replaced every 3 months. If you use an electric toothbrush, replace the head every 3 months. Bristles get worn down after weeks of use and stop being as effective at cleaning in the crevices of your teeth. Don’t make the mistake of using a toothbrush past its prime.
Skipping the Tongue
Did you know that the tongue is a target for bacteria? That’s why it’s really important to include cleaning your tongue in your oral care routine. Brush your tongue each time you brush your teeth, using the same technique.
Keeping your tongue clean helps prevent tooth decay and bad breath. You may want to try a tongue scraper; a cleaning device that removes particles from the tongue’s surface.
Rinsing Right Away
Many of us are used to rinsing our mouths with water immediately after brushing. That’s a no-no. Instead, spit out any remaining toothpaste and saliva, but don’t wash out your mouth with water. Toothpaste contains fluoride, a mineral that strengthens enamel and helps protect your teeth. Avoiding food or drinks for 10 minutes after brushing allows the fluoride to do its job and make your teeth more cavity-resistant.
Use a mouthwash after brushing and flossing for a complete oral care routine. Some mouthwashes also contain fluoride and further help to protect teeth and eliminate bad breath. But don’t rinse with water after using an oral rinse either!
Embrace MIstake-Free Brushing
Cleaning your teeth the right way each time you brush will help keep them cavity-free. Make sure you are brushing long enough and with the right technique. Don’t brush too forcefully and make sure to include your tongue. And avoid rinsing out your mouth right afterwards.
If you’re making simple mistakes when brushing your teeth, you can follow these guidelines for getting a healthier smile. And makCommone sure all your mistake-free tooth brushing is supported by regular visits to your dentist.