Even though it may appear to be simple, very few of us clean our teeth as thoroughly as we should. Fortunately, where there are mistakes, there are solutions. Here’s a look at a few common toothbrushing mistakes we make and how to avoid making them.
Picking the Wrong Brush
Many of us use the wrong toothbrush, and this may, in fact, be doing more harm than good. Ideally, we should pick a brush that can reach all the areas that require attention. It could be a power toothbrush or a manual toothbrush. But there is one rule that cannot be ignored: The bristles must be soft. Yes, hard bristles may leave the teeth feeling cleaner, but the fact is that they can cause tons of damage to the enamel. Unless specifically instructed by the dentist, it’s best to opt for a soft-bristled brush. The brush’s head size is also significant, especially if one has a small mouth. Brush handles come in a variety of sizes and angles. Some are more malleable and comfortable than others.
Brushing Too Hard
When it comes to toothbrushing, harder isn’t necessarily better. In fact, dentists believe that one of the most common problems people have is that they brush their teeth too hard. Many people think that if they don’t really go at the teeth, as if they’re trying to clean the grime and grout in their bathroom tile, they’re not doing a good job. But the fact remains that plaque is soft and loose, so there is no need to scrub it off. The best way to brush the teeth is by moving them in soft, gentle strokes, as if one was massaging them, as opposed to scrubbing them.
Brushing Too Fast
Dentists recommend that we brush our teeth for a minimum of two minutes twice a day. However, most of us have gotten into the habit of rushing our brushing routine and finishing the job in a matter of seconds. This can damage the teeth over time. To keep the teeth in top shape, make sure to take the necessary time to clean them properly.
