Last month we went over seven mistakes you might be making when brushing your teeth. This month, we’ll look at five more common errors that people make when they brush.
1. Brushing your teeth too hard
Many people use a vigorous scrubbing motion when they brush their teeth. It’s also how most people on TV and in movies clean their teeth. But did you know that it’s bad to brush your teeth this way? That’s because brushing your teeth too hard can wear down your enamel.
Instead, brush your teeth is with a gentle circular motion. This way is kinder to your teeth and it cleans more effectively too. So remember: brush with soft, little circles!
2. Not changing your brushing routine
It’s easy to get stuck in a routine, whether it’s a gym routine or how you brush your teeth. Most people brush their teeth the same way every day – in the same order and the same areas. The problem is that it’s easy to get lazy when you’re in a routine, and when you get lazy, you get sloppy.
That’s why it’s best to change your brushing routine often. So if you usually start brushing your bottom teeth first, then try starting from your top teeth instead. Or if you like to brush the front side of your teeth first, try starting from the back. It’s all about changing your routine and keeping you fresh and on your toes.
3. Using a manual toothbrush instead of an electric toothbrush
Most dentists will agree that electric toothbrushes are better than manual toothbrushes. This is because electric toothbrushes actually do a better job at cleaning your teeth than manual toothbrushes. They’re also easier to use – you just guide around your teeth it and it does the job for you. So if you’re using a manual toothbrush, consider switching to an electric one instead.
4. Brushing too often
Most dentists recommend that you brush your teeth twice a day – no more, no less. But some people think that if they brush three times a day or even four times a day then it must be better for their teeth. After all, if it’s good to brush twice a day, then it must be even better to brush three times a day, right?
The answer is no, however. This is because brushing more than two times a day can actually damage your brush by wearing down the enamel. And that’s not something you want to do to your teeth.
5. Brushing straight after eating
A lot of people brush their teeth straight after eating, such as after eating breakfast. This is a mistake because after eating, the pH level in your mouth is lower – in other words, your mouth is more acidic. This means that if you brush at this point, then you could damage your teeth. That’s why after eating, it’s best to wait 30-60 minutes before you brush your teeth.
That’s it again for this month – check back next month for another new post!