Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone of solid dental health. Without a daily cleaning, the bacteria on your teeth builds up, which can lead to the erosion of tooth enamel and then tooth decay. Daily cleaning also scrubs off plaque and leftover food off of your teeth, promoting a whiter, brighter smile.
With a huge importance staked on this simple task, you need to be sure you are doing it correctly. Here are five mistakes you might be making while brushing your teeth. Clean up your act before it is too late!
#1: You are using the wrong toothbrush.
Choosing the correct toothbrush is essential to a proper cleaning and one of the most common mistakes people make. Toothbrushes come in a variety of different shapes (large or small), bristle types (soft, medium, hard), and types (manual or electric). Each mouth is different, so be sure to choose a brush that fits your preferences. After all, you are more likely to brush if your toothbrush is comfortable. Consult with a dentist to discuss which toothbrush is best for you!
#2:You are using the wrong toothpaste.
Like toothbrushes, toothpaste come in a wide array of styles and options. Your local supermarket’s aisle is decked with dozens of different options: fluoride toothpaste, natural toothpaste, anti-tartar toothpaste, and more, each curtailed to a specific preference. Make sure to choose the right toothpaste for a deeper cleaning experience.
#3: You are not brushing long enough or often enough.
You might be brushing your teeth regularly, but do you do it long enough to effectively give your teeth a proper cleaning? For cavity and decay prevention, we recommend that you brush twice a day with ADA-accepted flouride toothpaste. Most dentists agree that you should brush for recommended two minutes to ensure that all plaque and leftover food is scrubbed off.
#4: You are not brushing everywhere in your mouth.
Twice a day for two minutes is worthless if you are brushing in the same place and not everywhere in your mouth. Be sure to clean your front teeth as well as the ones in the very back of your mouth, reaching hidden crevices. Plaque and bacteria build up at the gum line, so it is important to focus your brushing there as well. Also, do not forget something commonly forgotten: brushing your tongue.
#5: You are leaving your toothbrush in an unsanitary place.
What do you do when you finish brushing? Do you toss your toothbrush on the sink counter and continue about your day? Such practices can be unhealthy, as germs from your sink or your toilet can be exposed to the bristles touching the counter where germs live. To avoid these mistakes and unnecessary illness, rinse your toothbrush after each use and store it in a container or prop it up in a cup or coffee mug.
Want more tips on how to improve your dental health at home? Your friends at Greenspoint Dental are here to help. Feel free to contact our Houston offices today for all your dental questions and concerns.