Tooth brushing Mistakes
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.
