As simple as brushing may seem, there are still a few mistakes that can be made. Some brushing mistakes may actually cause harm to your teeth! Here Syrpes & Pangborn, we want you to be aware of these mistakes so that you can avoid them.
Common Brushing Mistakes
Below are 5 of the most common brushing mistakes:
Brushing too hard – There’s no need to get rough when brushing your teeth. In fact, brushing too vigorously can cause damage to the tooth enamel, causing it to weaken and increasing tooth sensitivity. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and be gentle when brushing.
Not brushing for long enough – Most people don’t brush their teeth for long enough. You need to make sure the surfaces of each tooth are brushed, which should take about 2 minutes. We recommend setting a timer or humming a 2-minutes song when brushing.
Storing your brush improperly – The best place to store your toothbrush is in the upright position in a closed cabinet. You can also use a toothbrush cover with antibacterial coating to make sure it stays sterile.
Sharing a toothbrush – Sharing a toothbrush is more common than you might think and it’s a dangerous habit. Sharing your toothbrush with anyone else can transfer bacteria, increasing the chances of contagious illness and even dental cavities. Each member of the family should have his or her own toothbrush!
Using the same brush for too long – Lastly, remember that your toothbrush should be replaced after 3 - 4 months or once the bristles begin to fray. It’s also a good idea to replace your toothbrush after you’ve recovered from a cold or the flu.
In order to make sure your teeth are healthy and strong, it’s important to make sure you’re properly brushing your teeth at least twice a day! You should also be flossing daily and visiting your general dentist for regular dental cleanings and checkups.