The Most Common Toothbrushing Mistakes

Did you know that there is a right way and a wrong way to brush your teeth? While brushing your teeth the wrong way is still better than not brushing your teeth at all, you can significantly improve your oral health by correcting the way you brush your teeth. Here are some of the most common mistakes you may be making while brushing your teeth: 

 

Using the Wrong Type of Toothbrush

If you’ve ever walked down the toothbrush aisle, you know how many different types of toothbrushes there are to choose from. The right toothbrush can be either manual or electric, however the key is to find a toothbrush with soft bristles that is long enough to reach the back of your mouth. The easiest way to find an appropriate toothbrush is to look for the American Dental Association seal of approval. 

 

Using Too Much Pressure and Wrong Technique

Not only is the type of toothbrush important, but it is also important to use the right amount of pressure. Using too much pressure to “scrub” your teeth can also cause dental erosion and gum recession. Instead, massaging your teeth is enough pressure to remove plaque.

 

Unfortunately, if you use too much pressure you may also be using the wrong technique. This is because when you “scrub” your teeth, you are most likely moving your toothbrush back and forth along the surface of your teeth. In actuality, you are supposed to start from the gum and move your toothbrush up and down in gentle massaging circles.  

Brushing Too Soon

The timing of when you brush is another important thing to consider. Contrary to popular belief, brushing your teeth right after a meal can actually do more harm than good. This is because there is more acid in your mouth right after you eat, meaning that brushing your teeth can actually cause dental erosion to occur more easily. Instead, it is recommended to wait about 15-20 minutes before brushing your teeth after a meal. This gives your saliva a chance to neutralize the excess acids in your mouth. 

 

 

Not Switching Toothbrushes

Even if you find the perfect toothbrush, you will still need to replace it eventually. Generally speaking, it is recommended to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles are discolored, frayed, or bent. Additionally, you will want to replace your toothbrush after you have been sick to avoid spreading bacteria in your mouth. Another way to avoid excess bacteria buildup on your toothbrush is to store it in an open container so that it can air dry. 

Not Brushing Long Enough

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time. Still, many people tend to brush for less time since they are in a hurry. Saving a minute or even seconds by not brushing for the full two minutes isn’t worth the time spent having a cavity filled. 

 

Forgetting Certain Areas

If you rush to brush your teeth, chances are you are forgetting to brush certain parts of your teeth. Neglecting certain parts of your teeth causes plaque to accumulate in these places, which can eventually lead to gum disease and tooth decay. When brushing your teeth, don’t forget to brush at a 45° angle along your gum line, as well as to brush the inside of your teeth. Many people tend to neglect these areas while brushing. 

 

 

Rinsing Your Mouth

After you are done brushing your teeth and have spit out the toothpaste, do not rinse your mouth with water. Doing so unfortunately dilutes the amount of fluoride applied to your teeth. However, fluoride is an important ingredient of toothpaste because of its ability to strengthen tooth enamel and make it  more resistant against tooth decay. 

 

If you find yourself making any of these mistakes while brushing your teeth, then you will want to make a few changes to your brushing habits. These are common mistakes that many people make, so there is no shame if you have been doing the same. The important thing is to start bruising your teeth the right way as soon as possible.