Wait a second! Just when you thought brushing was enough, we’re going to suggest you may be doing something wrong? Don’t worry. These five mistakes are easy to identify and just as simple to remedy! Get your brushing game up to speed by checking how you fall in with these five common errors.
Too Hard or Just Right?
What kind of bristles do you like on your toothbrush? Are you someone who feels like you need really hard bristles to get the job done? Think again. Soft bristles are the way to go when brushing your teeth. The softer the give, the more ability you have to get under the gumline where bacteria and food particles love to hide. Soft bristles also help loosen plaque better than hard bristles which, over time, actually can damage your tooth’s structure.
Have You Got the Time?
How long are you brushing? Be honest. If you’re brushing twice a day, you get a star. If you’re brushing for at least two minutes both of those times, you get a gold star. But it’s easy to think you’re brushing for two full minutes. Try timing yourself to see how you’re really doing. You can use a stopwatch or to have some fun, listen to a favorite song. Or download an app! No one said it had to be a boring time of day.
Are You Under Pressure?
Look in the mirror when you’re brushing your teeth. Do you look like your mad at your mouth? That you’re on a mission to destroy tartar? While it’s good to have that ambition, don’t take out the day’s frustration on your pearly whites. When it comes to healthy brushing, easy does it. Vigorous scrubbing can punish the gums and cause long-term damage. Think “massage” rather than “scrub.”
Afraid of Change?
How old is your toothbrush? If you don’t know, it’s probably too old. You should change out your toothbrush every 3-4 months—or every season. Keep it in a place where it can get plenty of air so that it dries in between uses. If the bristles get frayed or discolored before 3-4 months are over, change it out sooner.
Just Can’t Wait?
This one may surprise you. Do you feel the need to brush as soon as you finish a meal? See if you can wait 20 minutes—especially if you’ve eaten a meal with some acidic foods. Brushing too soon after is like brushing acid on your teeth. Try sipping water or chewing sugarless gum instead.
These are all easy habits to fix and will make a huge difference in the health of your teeth and the longevity of your smile. If you need more tips or want to make an appointment for a professional cleaning, give us a call at 828. 277.5024.
