Are you sure you are brushing your teeth the right way?
Are you sure you are brushing your teeth the right way? It is also necessary to brush your teeth correctly to make the most of your routine and maintain your oral health. As adults, it is sometimes an automatic process that we don’t think about, especially when we get busy. But, mistakes can quickly turn into bad habits if we do not identify them and make a change. Here are some common tooth brushing mistakes you’re probably making.
Brushing Too Hard
Many people believe that the best way to get their teeth clean is to brush with a lot of force. Unfortunately, not only does this not get your teeth any cleaner, but it also harms your enamel and irritates your gums. Over time, using too much force when brushing can lead to prematurely worn enamel, as well as a receding gum line. Instead of using a back and forth motion, try brushing in small, circular motions starting at the gums and down.
Not Brushing Long Enough
The person brushes their teeth for only about 45 seconds. This is less than half the time recommended by the American Dental Association. You should brush for two minutes to make sure that you have cleaned all the built-up plaque and food. If you have trouble keeping it up for the full two minutes, use a timer or a toothbrush with a built-in timer.
Skipping the Gums
Did you know that a lot of bacteria can get trapped along the gum line? Bacteria loves to hide in the small space between your tooth and the gum tissue. If you don’t brush your gums, the bacteria are left to grow and spread. Be sure to brush at an angle so you can clean out those spaces.
Not Replacing Your Toothbrush
Even the highest quality toothbrush must be replaced at some point when it begins to wear out. An old, worn-out toothbrush is less effective at removing plaque, and likely contains lingering bacteria. So to get the most benefits from your toothbrush, you should replace it every three or four months when the bristles begin to fray, bend, or change color.
Not Brushing Often Enough
It is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Many people brush in the morning and at night, so they start and end the day feeling fresh. Not brushing your teeth enough can lead to excess plaque buildup and bad breath.
KEEP YOUR MOUTH HAPPY WITH ANNAPOLIS DENTAL CARE!
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, your dentist in Annapolis is here to serve! Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. To set up an appointment today, please give us a call at 410-571-5014 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube! We are always looking for new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!