The 5 Mistakes You’re Making While Brushing Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth is a basic step in growing up and living a healthy hygienic lifestyle. Although it seems fairly simple, brushing your teeth correctly is a complex strategy of making sure to clean every part of your gums and teeth.
Mistake #1: Using a Retired Toothbrush
On average, a toothbrush can only maintain its stability and cleanliness up to roughly 200 uses or about 3 months if you brush twice a day. Once bristles begin to break or fray, particles can become trapped, spreading all kinds of food and bacteria throughout the mouth.
Mistake #2: Rush Brushing
We understand how difficult it can be to fit brushing your teeth into your daily routine, especially in a time crunch. However, it’s recommended to spend at least 2 minutes brushing your teeth. Any less and you leave part of your mouth neglected and the fluoride unable to settle.
Mistake #3: Improper Toothbrush Storage
Toothbrushes are commonly stored in bathrooms on the sink counter. However, did you know that once a toilet is flushed, spores are sprayed all around the room and collect on your toothbrush? We recommend it be placed in an area outside of the restroom, uncovered, and in the upright position.
Mistake #4: Rinsing Your Mouth With Water
It’s a common misconception that once you finish brushing your teeth, you rinse your mouth out with water. This, however, removes fluoride from your mouth and can limit how clean it will get. Instead, try a mouthwash that contains fluoride to rinse the toothpaste residue left after brushing.
Mistake #5: You Don’t Floss
Flossing is an integral part of the dental cleaning process. It allows you to reach deep between the teeth and remove any bacteria-hosting plaque that may have formed after meal/drink consumption. Aim to make flossing once a day part of your routine to avoid cavities and build-up.
Don’t worry, we all make these mistakes, but now it’s time to fix them. If you’d like more tips and tricks for a healthy, beautiful smile, just ask us during your next appointment!
