Today, we’re diving into the world of toothbrushing—something we do every day but perhaps not the right way. Yup, you heard that right. Even the simplest of dental practices can end up being executed improperly, especially if are in a hurry or are unaware of the correct technique. Fortunately, this is an easy fix; speak with a dentist near you to learn more and make the most of your at-home hygiene routine.
1. Brushing Too Fast
Do you ever feel like brushing your teeth is just a quick task before you rush off to do something else? Well, slow down. Brushing too fast means you might miss spots where sneaky plaque hides. Take your time, and give each tooth the attention it deserves.
2. Not Brushing Long Enough
Raise your hand if you brush your teeth for less than a minute. It’s okay; many people do. But here’s the thing: for a proper clean, you need to brush for at least two minutes. So, set a timer or hum your favourite song to make sure you hit that mark.
3. Using Too Much Pressure
Scrubbing your teeth like you’re cleaning a dirty pot won’t make them cleaner. In fact, it can hurt your gums and wear down your enamel. Use gentle, circular motions instead. Let your toothbrush do the work.
4. Forgetting the Tongue and Gums
One of the problems while brushing teeth is skipping tongue and gum cleaning. Teeth aren’t the only things in your mouth that need cleaning. Your tongue and gums deserve some love, too. Bacteria love to hang out there, so give them a good brush to keep your whole mouth fresh and healthy.
5. Skipping Flossing
Let’s be honest, flossing isn’t exactly fun. But it’s super important. It gets rid of food bits and plaque between your teeth, which your toothbrush can’t reach. So, make friends with floss and use it at least once a day.
6. You are Brushing Right After Eating
Surprise! Brushing right after munching on snacks or meals isn’t the best idea. Why? Because the acids in your food can weaken your enamel temporarily. Please wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to let your saliva do its job of neutralizing those acids.
7. Using an Old Toothbrush
Is your toothbrush looking a bit tired? If the bristles are frayed or flattened, it’s time to say goodbye and get a new one. Using an old toothbrush won’t clean your teeth properly and can even introduce bacteria into your mouth.
8. Sharing Toothbrushes
Sharing is caring, but not when it comes to toothbrushes. Each person should have their own brush to avoid swapping germs. So, keep your brush to yourself and let your friends do the same. Also, change your toothbrush every three months to avoid bacterial infection.
9. Ignoring Your Dentist
They might not be your favourite person to visit, but a dentist in Grande Prairie is an expert at keeping your smile sparkling. Take those check-ups. They can spot problems early and give you tips on how to brush better.
10. Not Rinsing Properly
After brushing and flossing, do you spit and go? Hold on a second. Rinsing with water helps wash away leftover toothpaste and bacteria, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
Need Assistance? We Can Help
Remember, brushing your teeth is a super important part of your daily routine. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll keep your pearly whites shining bright and your mouth feeling healthy. So, please slow down, take your time, and give your teeth the tender, loving care they deserve.
At Bear Creek Dental, our team can guide you on the proper brushing technique for a healthy smile. Plus, we offer teeth whitening near you to cure your yellowish teeth caused by improper brushing or poor oral hygiene habits.