Brushing your teeth twice a day should be an important part of your daily routine. Not only does brushing your teeth help to keep them sparkling white and prevent bad breath, but it’s crucial in order to prevent tooth decay and gum disease too. Brushing your teeth removes plaque (the transparent layer of bacteria that coats your teeth) and stimulates the gums, helping to keep them clean and healthy.
However, in order to properly look after your teeth and gums, it’s important that you brush your teeth correctly. Every day, people make small mistakes when brushing their teeth without even realising - but these mistakes can lead to various issues.
Below, we take a look at three common mistakes people make when brushing their teeth.
It’s recommended that you brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day, but it’s surprising how many people don’t quite make the two whole minutes - in fact, many people only brush their teeth for half of the recommended time. Always make sure you brush your teeth for the two full minutes; if you struggle to tell how long you’ve been brushing for, set a timer on your phone or keep an eye on the clock.
Brushing your teeth too hard can damage your teeth, causing wear and receding gums. While many people believe that giving their teeth a good tough scrub will make them cleaner, this is not true. Brushing harder will not leave your teeth cleaner; it will only cause more harm than good. Brushing should never be uncomfortable or hurt. Make sure you don’t brush too hard and, if required, invest in a soft-bristled brush for extra comfort if your teeth are sensitive.
It’s important that you change your toothbrush regularly - and by regularly, we mean at least every three months. Over time, the bristles become worn and your toothbrush won’t be as effective, and therefore it’s best to swap it out for a new one so that you can continue to brush your teeth properly. If you have an electric toothbrush, you should also replace your brush head every three months.
At Manor Road Dental Practice Ltd., we offer expert dental care in Swansea. Our practice is conveniently located in Swansea’s central Manselton area; our experts are proud to offer a range of oral health, dental and aesthetic services. To learn more about us, visit our website.