Everyone knows that they can help to keep their teeth clean and avoid common oral health problems by brushing twice a day. Unfortunately, just picking up the toothbrush and having a go at it isn’t always enough to get rid of plaque and bacteria. Read on to find out about seven common mistakes that people make while brushing their teeth and make sure to avoid them.
1. Not Brushing for Long Enough
Even the best family dentist won’t be able to help patients prevent tooth decay and gum disease if they don’t brush their teeth for a full two minutes twice each day. The average person only spends half the recommended time brushing, and many people don’t even realize it. Try setting a timer on the phone or using an electric toothbrush that buzzes at 30-second intervals to make sure each session makes the full two-minute mark.
2. Rinsing After Brushing
When people rinse their mouths immediately after brushing, they’re washing away all the fluoride and enamel-protecting ingredients in their toothpaste. Instead of rinsing with water, just spit out the toothpaste and move on. It may feel strange at first, but this London dentist thinks it’s a good habit to get into.
3. Using the Wrong Toothpaste
Not all toothpaste is considered equal. While there’s no one brand that’s a universal best fit for everyone, all Americans should make sure that the toothpaste they’re using contains sufficient fluoride to prevent tooth decay. Adults should aim for 1,350 – 1,500 ppm, and people who choose vegan toothpaste alternatives should be especially cautious about reading the labels because not all of these products contain fluoride, at all.
4. Using the Wrong Toothbrush
There’s an ongoing debate among not just consumers but also dentists about whether manual or electric toothbrushes are better for brushing teeth, but these days, most experts come down on the side of electric models. They make it easier to clean the back of the mouth, and most models buzz at 30-second intervals to let users know when they should move to a new quadrant. Whether people choose to use electric or manual options, they should make sure to buy extra-soft, soft, or medium-bristle toothbrushes to prevent damaging the gums and tooth enamel.
5. Brushing Too Hard
Brushing with a heavy hand can cause unnecessary wear to the teeth and contribute to receding gums. People who are prone to brushing a little too hard should choose soft-bristled toothbrushes or electric models that have sensors to keep track of pressure. Try to focus on brushing one tooth at a time instead of using side-to-side scrubbing motions.
6. Using Old Toothbrushes
Worn-out toothbrushes aren’t very effective. Experts recommend changing either toothbrushes or heads every three months. Patients should also change toothbrushes if they’ve been sick since the bacteria can grow on them and cause reinfection.
7. Using Mouthwash Instead of Brushing or Flossing
It’s fine to use mouthwash, but not as a replacement for brushing or flossing. While products made by reputable brands can kill bacteria, they won’t remove plaque from between the teeth. There’s no replacement for daily flossing.
The Bottom Line
Brushing twice daily is one of the keys to maintaining optimal oral health, but only if people follow tooth brushing best practices. Try to pay more attention during home oral care routines and make sure to avoid the seven common mistakes described above. You should also make it part of your routine to visit a dentist every 6 months. If you’re looking for one, you can reach out to this dentist who offers teeth whitening and dental implants in vista.