Discovering you have gum disease or tooth decay because of bad oral hygiene can be shocking, even to those who clean their teeth regularly.
Regularly brushing your teeth isn’t enough. You should also do it correctly and avoid common errors.
Here are some of the 7 most frequent mistakes individuals make when cleaning their teeth. They will give you insight into how to avoid them next time you brush your teeth.
1. Brushing Your Team for a Short Time
Brushing your teeth for two minutes two times a day is the suggested time.
However, ordinary persons brush their teeth for only 45 seconds!
There’s a reason why 2 minutes is advised. Brushing for less than two minutes doesn’t allow the fluoride in your toothpaste to perform its work and bond to the enamel.
So wash your teeth for two minutes. You can set a timer and listen to music. Whichever aids you in adhering to the two-minute guideline, your teeth will appreciate it.
2. Not Using the Correct Toothbrush
Using the wrong toothbrush is one of the most prevalent brushing errors.
There are two kinds of toothbrushes to think about: manual and electric.
Select what is comfortable for you and makes you desire to clean your teeth on a routine basis.
A manual toothbrush is easily transportable and ready to use whenever you need it. It doesn’t produce any noise, and you have total control over the pressure it applies to your gums and teeth.
An electric toothbrush makes some noise when brushing. The revolving action of the bristles does cleaning between the teeth and the gum line simpler.
Some electric toothbrushes include built-in sensors to manage how much pressure you apply to your teeth. They also have timers to show how long you should brush for, which may be pretty helpful.
The size of the brush’s head is also essential, mainly if your mouth is small. Brushes come in a variety of sizes and shapes, as well as handles. It is easy to become perplexed by all of the available alternatives.
Make sure to keep your toothbrush clean, regardless of the type you use.
3. Keeping Your Brush Wet
It can be wet when you put your toothbrush in a tight place, like in a drawer or cabinet. Bacteria will multiply if it remains wet in a confined area for a more extended time. Before putting your toothbrush away, allow it to air dry.
After brushing your teeth, you should leave your toothbrush air dry vertically, away from other toothbrush heads.
Before you begin brushing, thoroughly rinse the bristles of your toothbrush with warm water. This is to eliminate any dirt and do the same when you finish. The toothbrush handle is also crucial. Keep it clean by wiping it down regularly.
4. Not Brushing the Inner Surfaces of the Teeth
The problem is that you’ve been cleaning your teeth since you were a baby. Whether you know it or not, you clean your teeth without even thinking about it.
You have a tendency that has been instilled in you for many years. That’s years of missing the same areas over and over again. Brushing your teeth well is critical, so be extra careful.
Brushing is necessary. But how you brush is crucial. You must ensure that your brushing technique is flawless. It would help if you cleaned every nook and cranny of your mouth.
5. Not Changing an Old Toothbrush
It is critical to replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head after three to four months. If the bristles are frayed, you should replace them as quickly as possible.
If you’ve been ill, consider obtaining a new toothbrush sooner. This should happen, especially if it’s stored near other toothbrushes.
When in doubt, inspect the bristles. Torn bristles will not clean teeth well. Since kids brush more vigorously than adults, their toothbrushes may need to be changed more frequently.
6. Rinsing Your Mouth After Brushing
Generally, toothpaste has enamel-protective chemicals that help to prevent tooth decay. It also helps improve the health of your mouth.
The bulk of these chemicals will be lost if you rinse your mouth after brushing. This will leave your teeth and mouth exposed to the outside environment.
However, spitting the water is a better option. This allows you to retain the toothpaste in your mouth for a longer time. Thus, it will protect your mouth from dangerous germs.
It is crucial to note that this process is especially vital at night. This is because germs frequently begin to thrive while you are sleeping.
7. Inappropriate Time for Brushing
Foods having a low pH (for example, acidic foods) might cause immediate harm to your teeth and gums. Luckily, saliva acts as a barrier, preventing this process from taking place.
But, brushing your teeth soon after eating a meal exposes your mouth to acidic conditions. This is because there isn’t protection from the saliva.
Wait a minimum of 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. This allows the glands to release more saliva into the mouth.
You may always rinse your mouth with water to mask the smell/taste. This should happen if you can’t tolerate the smell/taste of food and wash your teeth.
Use the Above Oral Hygiene Tips to Avoid Dental Health Issues
Brushing your teeth exposes you to several errors. These mistakes might harm your teeth’ health and expose you to gingival disorders.
Also, remember to visit your dentist and oral health therapist frequently for the best oral hygiene routine.
At Newbury Dental Group Dentist in Newbury Park & Thousand Oaks, CA, we offer a wide option of dental procedures and services to address all your dental needs.
Call us today to book an appointment and our team will be ready to help you create a satisfying smile.