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Top 10 Dental Myths to Stop Believing | Dr. Saket

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Have you ever stopped to question whether that “helpful” dental advice passed down by a family member is actually true? With old traditions, half-heard tips, and viral social media trends everywhere, people often pick up mixed messages about oral care. Unfortunately, following these common dental myths can lead to preventable problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and even expensive dental treatments later on.

This guide clears the confusion. It explains why dental myths spread so quickly and breaks down ten of the most common myths using simple, accurate, evidence-based facts. Understanding the truth behind these myths is the first step toward smarter choices and better long-term oral health.

Top 10 Dental Myths You Should Stop Believing

The most important thing to understand is this: many common dental myths are not just harmless beliefs. They can delay treatment, increase pain, and even lead to tooth loss. When patients follow dental myths instead of real advice from a dentist, they risk their oral health and overall well-being. That’s why the team at Dr. Saket’s Dental Makeover focuses on educating patients and clearing these dental myths in a simple, friendly way.

10 Common Dental Myths Debunked

Myth 1: “Brushing harder cleans your teeth better.”

Reality: Brushing harder does not clean better; it damages the enamel and irritates gums. A soft-bristled brush, gentle pressure, and proper technique are enough to remove plaque. Dentists at Dr Saket’s Dental Makeover often see patients with sensitive teeth because of this dental myth.

Myth 2: “Sugar is the only cause of cavities.”

Reality: Sugar is a big factor, but it’s not the only one. Cavities form when bacteria feed on leftover food and produce acids that attack the tooth surface. Sticky snacks, acidic drinks, poor brushing habits, and not visiting the dentist regularly also play a role. So, focusing only on sugar is another misleading dental myth.

Myth 3: “If my gums bleed, I should stop flossing.”

Reality: Bleeding gums are usually a sign of inflammation, not a sign to stop flossing. In fact, gentle and regular flossing helps clean between teeth and reduce gum bleeding over time. Stopping flossing allows more plaque to build up and can make the problem worse.

Myth 4: “If my teeth look healthy and don’t hurt, everything is fine.”

Reality: Many dental problems start silently. Cavities, gum disease, and early infections often don’t cause pain at first. By the time pain appears, the issue may be advanced. This dental myth leads people to skip regular check-ups. Dentists at Dr Saket’s Dental Makeover often detect hidden problems during routine exams long before they become painful.

Myth 5: “Baby teeth don’t matter they fall out anyway.”

Reality: Baby teeth act like guides for permanent teeth, helping in proper chewing, speech development, and jaw growth. If baby teeth decay or fall out prematurely, it can lead to crowding or misalignment later. Treating baby teeth properly is essential, and ignoring them because of this dental myth can create big problems for a child’s future smile.

Myth 6: “Chewing gum can replace brushing.”

Reality: Sugar-free chewing gum can help increase saliva and reduce food particles, but it can never replace brushing and flossing. Gum does not remove sticky plaque from tooth surfaces and gum lines. It may freshen breath for a short time, but relying on this dental myth leads to poor cleaning.

Myth 7: “White teeth are healthy teeth.”

Reality: Colour is not the full story. Teeth can be naturally slightly yellow and still be strong and healthy. At the same time, very white teeth may still have cavities or gum disease. Only a dental check-up can tell if teeth are truly healthy. Believing this dental myth can make people focus only on whitening, not on real oral health.

Myth 8: “Charcoal toothpaste is safer and better for whitening.”

Reality: Charcoal toothpaste is often harsh and abrasive. It can wear down enamel, making teeth more sensitive and even more yellow over time because the inner layer becomes exposed. Many charcoal products are not tested or recommended by dentists. This popular dental myth can quietly harm the smile instead of improving it.

Myth 9: “You should brush right after eating.”

Reality: Brushing immediately after eating acidic foods or drinks (like citrus fruits or soft drinks) can push the acid deeper into the enamel and weaken it. Dentists usually suggest waiting about 30 minutes, rinsing with water first, and then brushing. This helps protect enamel and keep teeth strong.

Myth 10: “Rinsing after brushing is necessary.”

Reality: Many people rinse their mouths with lots of water right after brushing. This washes away the fluoride from the toothpaste that is meant to stay on teeth and protect them. Spitting out the foam but not heavy rinsing allows the fluoride to keep working longer. This simple change can greatly improve protection against cavities and is a helpful correction to a common dental myth.

Your Oral Health and Your Body

Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Untreated gum disease and infections can affect blood sugar control in diabetes, increase inflammation in the body, and may be linked to heart problems. When patients follow dental myths instead of proper care, they risk more than just their teeth.

Regular check-ups at a trusted clinic like Dr Saket’s Dental Makeover help detect issues early and protect overall health, not just the smile.

How to Identify Reliable Dental Information

To avoid dental myths and confusion, patients can:

Check if the advice comes from qualified dentists or professional dental bodies.

Be cautious of “magic” home remedies that promise instant results.

Compare information on more than one trusted health website.

Ask their dentist directly during appointments.

Simple questions like “Is this safe?” or “Is this just another dental myth?” can open helpful conversations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dental myths harmful to oral health?

Yes. Many dental myths lead to poor habits such as aggressive brushing, incorrect cleaning methods, or delaying treatment. These can cause gum disease, cavities, and enamel erosion. Evidence-based dental care recommended by professionals like Dr. Saket’s Dental Makeover prevents these issues.

Is brushing harder better for cleaning teeth?

No. Hard brushing wears down enamel and irritates the gums. A soft toothbrush and gentle circular motions clean teeth effectively without damaging them.

Does sugar alone cause cavities?

No. Cavities form when bacteria feed on any food particles—including starchy foods and acidic drinks. Frequent snacking and poor brushing habits also increase decay risk.

Should I stop flossing if my gums bleed?

No. Bleeding gums usually mean inflammation due to plaque buildup. Gentle daily flossing helps reduce bleeding over time and keeps gums healthy.

Are white teeth always healthy teeth?

Not necessarily. A tooth can look bright and white but still have cavities or gum infections. Colour does not always reflect true oral health.

Is chewing gum a substitute for brushing?

No. Sugar-free gum can freshen breath and boost saliva flow, but it cannot remove plaque. Brushing twice a day and flossing are still essential.

Should I brush my teeth right after eating?

Not if the meal was acidic. Acidic foods and drinks soften the enamel, and brushing immediately after can cause erosion. Waiting 30 minutes protects enamel.

Do baby teeth matter if they fall out anyway?

Yes. Baby teeth help with chewing, speech, and guiding permanent teeth into proper alignment. Ignoring them can lead to spacing, crowding, and bite problems later.

Is charcoal toothpaste safe for whitening?

No. Charcoal toothpaste is abrasive and can erode enamel, causing sensitivity and long-term damage. Dentists recommend fluoride toothpaste for safe whitening.

Do I need to rinse my mouth after brushing?

No. Rinsing washes away the protective fluoride from toothpaste. Spit out the foam and avoid rinsing with water for best results.

How often should someone visit the dentist?

Most people benefit from a dental check-up every six months. Regular visits help detect problems early before they become painful or expensive.

Are dental treatments always painful?

No. Modern dentistry uses effective local anaesthesia. Most treatments, including cleanings, fillings, and root canals, are generally comfortable. At Dr. Saket’s Dental Makeover, a patient-friendly approach helps keep procedures stress-free.

Do professional cleanings make teeth loose?

No. Cleaning removes plaque and tartar that weaken the support of teeth. The process helps strengthen oral health and prevent gum disease.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Get the Right Facts. Protect Your Smile with Expert Dental Guidance.

Now that you understand how common dental myths spread and how they can quietly harm your teeth and gums, the next step is choosing the right dental care backed by real science, not misinformation.

At Dr Saket’s Dental Makeover, patients receive clear, evidence-based advice to replace confusion with confidence. Whether you’re worried about bleeding gums, sensitivity, cavities, enamel damage, or simply want to upgrade your daily oral hygiene routine, the clinic offers personalised guidance to help you make informed decisions.

Led by Dr Saket Gaurav, the clinic focuses on modern diagnostics, gentle techniques, preventive care, and patient education. Every treatment, from routine cleaning to advanced procedures, is explained in simple terms so you know exactly what is happening and why.

Dental myths shouldn’t shape your oral habits or delay the care you truly need.
Get trusted, science-backed support tailored to your unique smile.

📞 Call: 7290053530
 🌐 Visit: https://dentalmakeover.in/

Schedule your preventive dental check-up today and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile with Dr. Saket’s Dental Makeover.

Oral Health Issues in Children

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR.

Most of us think that baby teeth are not as important as the adult teeth because baby teeth will be eventually replaced by the adult teeth, but it is still very important to care and monitor the oral health in children also. It is something very important to their general well being. A number of issues can affect the oral health of children and if not taken care at the right time may lead to serious oral health problems.

The most common oral health issues in children:

Tooth Decay: Also known as childhood tooth decay is the number one and most common dental issues. Tooth decay can cause pain, infection and even affect your child’s growth. Fortunately, it is a preventable disease. Limiting the consumption of certain foods that can leave sugars on the surface of the teeth such as candy, soft drinks and cookies or brushing the child’s teeth after consumption can prevent tooth decay.

Thumb Sucking: Many children suck their thumbs as a habit. In most cases this isn’t cause for concern, as children usually stop sucking their thumbs naturally once they grow up but if children continue this habit after their first teeth begin to appear, this can affect the alignment of the teeth and jaw.

Nursing bottle caries: This is a form of tooth decay that occurs in very young children. This mostly affects the group of teeth mostly front teeth. This develops due to prolonged exposure to milk or sugary liquids in babies or toddlers especially at bedtime. Make sure that after feeding babies you rinse their mouth at least with water.

Over-retained primary (baby) teeth: If a child’s permanent tooth begins erupting in the same space as their primary tooth that has not fallen out yet, it is important to address this issue as soon as possible.

Grinding (Bruxism): The grinding of teeth is a common developmental condition occurring in childhood that is often involuntary. Most children tend to stop grinding their teeth as they age, but if they don’t, they can cause wear on their teeth or even crack them.

Teaching your child proper oral care at a young age is very important that will pay lifelong. You can start by setting an example by taking good care of your own teeth sends a message that oral health is something to be valued. And anything that makes taking care of teeth fun, like brushing along with your child or letting them choose their own toothbrush, encourages proper oral care. To help your children protect their teeth and gums and greatly reduce their risk of getting cavities, teach them to follow these simple steps:

  • Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque-the sticky film on teeth that’s the main cause of tooth decay.
  • Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth.
  • Eat a well-balanced diet that limits starchy or sugary foods, which produce plaque acids that cause tooth decay. When you do eat these foods, try to eat them with your meal instead of as a snack-the extra saliva produced during a meal helps rinse food from the mouth.
  • Fruit juice and fruit drinks are not recommended for infants under 12 months.
  • Give fresh fruit instead of fruit juice. Chewing stimulates saliva which protects teeth against decay.
  • Water and milk are the best drinks.
  • Limit sugary drinks including: soft drinks, fruit juice, sports drinks, vitamin waters, fruit drinks and energy drinks between meals.
  • Make sure that your children’s drinking water is fluoridated.
  • Take your child to the dentist every six months for regular checkup

Make sure you keep a check on your child’s oral health. As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, it’s time to schedule a dental visit. If you notice any above mentioned issues visit your dentist for a check and take his opinion on the issue and get it treated.

How to use- MOUTHWASH

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR

When we talk about good oral hygiene, three things come on our mind brushing, flossing and using mouthwash. These are often told by the dentists as well. Today we are going to talk about mouthwash. Mouthwash is a part of a good daily oral hygiene practice. Mouthwashes are beneficial, in removing food particles left in between and on the teeth even after brushing and flossing. Since, it’s a liquid; it can be reach where a tooth brush and floss cannot.

While mouthwash is not a substitute for proper brushing, it can help with a number of oral health issues like cavity protection, bad breath management and in therauptic uses. There are various types of mouthwash available. Broadly, mouthwashes containing fluoride can help in preventing the formation of tooth decay. Alternatively, antiseptic mouthwashes can help reduce the bacteria that cause gum disease and decay. Other mouthwashes may help reduce teeth sensitivity.

There are few myths regarding the use and effects of mouthwash. Let’s discuss it.

Firstly it’s a very common one, mouthwashes cures bad breath. Yes, mouthwash may temporarily cure stinky breath, but it’s not a permanent solution. There can be multiple reasons for bad breath like the food you consume, or if you have any respiratory infection or some systemic disease like diabetes etc or you have lot of plaque and tartar build up all over your mouth. So, freshening your mouth with mouthwash won’t help for long. Better see your dentist to know the exact cause of bad breath and then target the real problem.

Secondly, all mouthwashes are the same. Not really, as discussed before, there are different mouthwashes for different needs. In general, mouthwash can be classified as, regular or therapeutic uses. Rinsing with a regular mouthwash will loosen bits of food from your teeth, lessen bacteria in your mouth, temporarily reduce bad breath and leave a refreshing taste in your mouth. On the other hand, therapeutic rinses contain additional active ingredients such as essential oils, chlorhexidine, fluoride, betadine etc which has been proven to reduce plaque, fight cavities, reduce teeth sensitivity or help in gingival healing by keeping the bacterial count minimum.

You must have heard people saying, anyone can use the mouthwash and mouthwash is harmless. Well that’s not true. Many mouthwashes contain a high amount of alcohol. This can cause dry mouth, which is a cause of bad breath, and irritate oral tissues. In some people, the alcohol can cause sensitivity to the root surfaces of the teeth. There have also been studies suggesting a link between alcohol-containing mouthwash and oral cancer on long term use. Also, Long-term use of alcohol containing mouthwashes can kill ‘good’ bacteria and should never be given to children. Alcohol-free mouthwashes are also available. But other ingredients can cause side effects, too. Many can stain your teeth or cause a burning sensation, and therefore it isn’t recommended for long-term use. Mouthwash is not meant to be ingested, so it may cause problems if accidentally swallowed. It’s not usually recommended for young children before the age of six. This is because most children would swallow the mouthwash instead of spitting it out. Most mouthwashes contain fluoride and few contain alcohol both of these are not advisable to swallow even in trace amounts. Yet there are few mouthwashes available that are specifically made for children because they contain no alcohol and are fluoridated in right amounts. This results in protection against cavities with safety.

Mouthwash cannot replace brushing and flossing. Yes, it cuts back the level of bacteria in your mouth. But not for the whole day if brushing and flossing is not done. Plaque must be removed by a physical action and that’s exactly the role of flossing and brushing. Regular flossing and brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush will do a much more effective job of removing plaque and debris than mouthwash alone. Research shows that adding a rinse with mouthwash to your oral care routine can in fact improve the overall cleanliness of your mouth and help keep gum inflammation at bay. But mouthwash is usually considered an add-on, not a replacement for brushing and flossing.

The best way to use mouthwash is to gargle or rinse just for a few quick seconds and then spit. Most mouthwashes are at their most effective when in contact with your mouth tissues for 30 seconds per use. Keeping the mouthwash for too long in mouth can cause loss of taste sensation for few days and may irritate the gums and soft tissues all over. If you are using the mouthwash on regular basis you may dilute the mouthwash with water in 1:1 ratio if recommended or needed.

Ask your dentist for advice about the best mouthwash for you. Read and follow the instructions on the label, looking for how much to use and for how long to rinse with the mouthwash. Always remember mouthwash isn’t a short-cut.

Tooth Sensitivity- Causes and remedies

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Dr. Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR

If drinking a glass of cold water, eating ice cream or drinking hot coffee gives you a painful shock like unpleasant sensation or experience, then for sure its sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common issue troubling mostly youngsters and adults. In certain cases the teeth sensitivity is also aggravated by consuming sweet, acidic food items or even with air on few occasions.

A healthy teeth, is made up of three different layers-
Enamel: The outer most layers, very hard and highly mineralized layer protect the crown portion of the teeth. No nerve innervations present in this layer.
Dentine: It’s the second layer beneath enamel and is less dense than enamel and contains microscopic tubules (small hollow tubes or canals).
Pulp: The innermost layer mainly comprised of blood vessels and nerve innervations.

Reason for sensitivity: When outer protective layer of enamel is lost these tubules allow hot, cold, acidic or sticky foods to reach the nerves or pulp inside the tooth. Dentin may also be exposed due to gum recession. This results in hypersensitivity.
The good news is that if precaution, care and dentist consult is taken at the right time it can help you get away with tooth sensitivity. Here is a list of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity with tips on what you can do to minimize the pain.

Decayed tooth or Cavities: The virulent bacteria those are present in tooth decay produce acid, which accelerates the enamel breakdown resulting in cavity formation. Once the cavity starts getting deeper and deeper and reached close to the pulp (nerves), tooth sensitivity or pain may be experienced. It is very important that you see your dentist if you suspect you have decay in your teeth. You will be advised for tooth fillings, tooth crown or root canal treatment.

Gum disease: Using a very hard bristled brush, applying extra force during brushing and smoking may cause recession of gums, which is one of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity. There are dental procedures that can treat gum disease, the already receded gums as well as changes in oral health habits such as careful brushing and quitting the habit of smoking can help.

Teeth grinding: People suffering from Bruxism (the grinding, of the teeth most commonly during sleep or awake) can experience a wearing down of the enamel on their teeth. This results in exposing the dentin layer, which leads to the tooth sensitivity. Using a mouth guard might help.

Citrus/Acidic foods: Consuming to much of citrus and acidic food items causes erosion of the enamel layer leading to teeth sensitivity. Try to avoid foods such as citrus fruits, pickles and tomato sauce and other acidic food items. Use of desensitizing toothpaste might help.

Plaque: a sticky deposit on teeth in which bacteria proliferate. Excessive plaque accumulation on the tooth surface may lead to tooth decay and once this occurs, your teeth may become sensitive. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits and visiting your dentist every 6 months for cleanings and check up will help in keeping a healthy oral hygiene.

Cracked/Fractured tooth: Trauma may result in the fracture or crack of the tooth, once the fracture line gets deeper involving the dentine and pulp, you may experience sensitivity or pain. It is important to consult with your dentist to discuss treatment options which will depend on the extent of damage, treatment like tooth fillings, tooth crowning or root canal treatment if the nerves are involved may be advised.

Applying force while brushing: Brushing with too much force/pressure can wear away the enamel layer, exposing the soft dentin underneath leading to sensitivity. You should try to brush more gently or with a soft bristled toothbrush. If the dentin layer is already exposed, consult your dentist for treatment options.
Excessive use of Whitening toothpaste: Some of us think that using the whitening toothpaste will whiten the teeth, that’s true it does whiten but the chemicals present in it also causes chemical erosion leading to wearing away of the enamel layer and resulting in teeth sensitivity. You may switch to fluoride or desensitizing toothpaste instead. If the discomfort persists then consult your dentist.

Mouthwashes: Few mouthwashes contain alcohol or other chemicals that can aggravate sensitive teeth. Make sure that you opt for a non-alcoholic standard mouthwash.

Recent dental procedure: it is normal to experience increased tooth sensitivity after a dental procedure like tooth fillings, cleaning etc. This is nothing to be concerned about unless the sensitivity does not disappear on its own. But if it doesn’t then consult your dentist.

TEETH WHITENING

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR.

Your smile creates an immediate, subconscious, visual impact on people you meet. A brighter smile gives the impression of youth, vitality, radiant health, happiness, and warmth. A bright smile is perceived as a healthy smile. Tooth whitening is an increasingly popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that can make a massive difference on the appearance of your smile.

Causes of Tooth Discoloration
As we get older, our teeth naturally darken and discolor due to factors such as diet, age, lifestyle-smoking habits, drugs (like tetracycline), grinding (due to stress), trauma and even genetics. Tooth whitening can make your teeth look younger, cleaner and healthier.

Types of Tooth Stains
Extrinsic stains are those that appear on the surface of the teeth as a result of exposure to dark-colored beverages, foods and tobacco, and routine wear and tear. Superficial extrinsic stains are minor and can be removed by prophylactic dental cleaning and whitening.
Intrinsic stains are those that form on the interior of teeth. Intrinsic stains result from trauma, aging, exposure to minerals (like tetracycline) during tooth formation and/or excessive ingestion of fluoride. There are alternative cosmetic solutions to treat intrinsic staining, such as dental veneers and crowns.

Types of Teeth Whitening
There are various ways to whiten your teeth, but the two most common are office whitening and the home whitening systems-
Office Teeth Whitening
Professional tooth whitening in a dental office is the preferred whitening method because it is more effective. Even though stronger agents are applied, the rest of the mouth, including the gums, is protected from these materials. The best whitening systems feature a buffer in the gel that protects the tooth enamel from damage, are extremely effective, and can transform teeth color in a single visit. Your teeth can literally brighten up to 5 shades in about an hour.
Tooth whitening can last for 6 months or more, depending on how well you take care of your teeth.
Home Teeth Whitening Systems
They can either be used as a primary whitening option or as secondary option after office whitening to maintain the whitening result for longer time. Dentist’s supervision is must before you start using Home tooth whitening methods. They include whitening strips, paint-on tooth gel, mouth trays with gel. These are typically safe products.

Teeth Whitening Risks
Teeth whitening treatments are considered to be safe when procedures are followed as directed. However, there are certain risks associated with bleaching that you should be aware of:
Sensitivity: Bleaching can cause a temporary increase in sensitivity to temperature, pressure and touch.
Whitening sensitivity lasts no longer than a day or two, but in some cases may persist up to a month. It is recommended to use desensitizing toothpaste for few days after a whitening session.
Gum irritation: You might experience some degree of gum irritation resulting from the bleach concentration or from contact with the whitening trays. Such irritation typically lasts up to 1-2 days.

Maintaining Your Teeth Whitening Results
To extend the longevity of newly whitened teeth, it is recommended

  • To use home whitening  once to twice a month
  • Avoiding dark-colored foods and beverages for at least a week after whitening.
  • Whenever possible, sipping dark-colored beverages with a straw.
  • Practicing excellent oral hygiene – brushing and flossing after meals and at bedtime.

 

Tooth brushing Mistakes

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR.

Tooth brushing is such an ingrained habit, few people think twice about it. But as with any habit, you can get sloppy, and that can lead to cavities and gum disease.

1: Not Using the Right Toothbrush
Consider the size of your mouth when picking a toothbrush. If you are straining to open wide enough to let the brush in, the brush is probably too big. The handle has to be comfortable. It should feel comfortable as you are holding and the toothbrush head should be small so that it reaches the very last tooth as well. The more comfortable it is in your mouth and your hand, then the more likely you will use it and use it properly.

2: Not Brushing Often Enough or Long Enough
Softly brushing your teeth at least twice a day is recommended. ”Three times a day is best.” With too much time between brushings bacterial plaque will build up, boosting the risk of gum inflammation and other problems.
Brushing should last at least two minutes, three minutes is even better. Most people fall short of both time lines. It is often recommended to divide the mouth into quadrants and spend 30 seconds a quadrant. Some electric toothbrushes include built-in timers.

3: Not Picking the Right Bristles
Some toothbrushes have angled bristles, others straight. So is one type better? NO…..”It’s more related to technique than the way the bristles come out. What is important when buying a toothbrush? Bristles that are too stiff can aggravate the gums. It is recommended to use a soft-bristled brush. Bristles should be sturdy enough to remove plaque but not hard enough to damage the teeth when used properly.

4: Not Brushing Correctly
Long horizontal strokes along the gum line can lead to abrasions. Aim your bristles at the gum line at a 45-degree angle and do short strokes or vibrations. Softly brush up and down your teeth, not across your teeth. The strokes should be vertical or circular, not horizontal.
Be sure to brush outer and inner tooth surfaces, the chewing surfaces, and your tongue.

5: Brushing Too Often or Too Hard
While brushing your teeth three times a day is ideal, but brushing twice is must. Excessive brushing could expose the root of the tooth to irritation, and that could in turn irritate the gums. Brushing vigorously can also erode tooth enamel. The trick is to brush very gently for two to three minutes.

6: Skipping Inner Tooth Surfaces
Most people forget to brush the inner surfaces of teeth — the surface that your tongue presses against.
The plaque you can’t see is just as important to remove as the plaque you can see.
The most commonly skipped area, dentists say, is the inner surface of the lower front teeth.

7: Starting in the Same Place Each Time
Many people start brushing the same part of their mouth over and over. Start in a different place so that
You don’t get lazy in the same area of your mouth.

8: Not Following Up With a Rinse
Bacteria can grow on an un-rinsed toothbrush. Then, the next time you brush your teeth, you may actually put old bacteria back in your mouth. Rinsing the toothbrush after you brush will help remove any leftover toothpaste, too.

9: Not Letting the Toothbrush Dry
If you have a toothbrush that’s perpetually moist, it will cultivate more bacteria.
If the bristles stay soggy, you can shape-out them as you use the brush. Or it might be a breeding ground for bacteria. It’s a good idea to shake out the moisture, and then recap it with a cap that allows air in.

10: Not Changing the Toothbrush Often Enough
It is recommended to get a new brush every three months or even sooner if the bristles look frayed. Once the bristles lose their normal flexibility and start to break apart, change your toothbrush. Some brushes have colored indicators that alert you when they need replacing.