Are you ready to take your oral health to the next level? Our Delta dentist shares three common brushing mistakes to avoid when cleaning your teeth.
Are you using the wrong toothbrush?
Whether you prefer a manual or electric toothbrush, be sure that it easily reaches all the areas of your mouth, and that it's comfortable to use.
A Small Brush Head is Best
Our Delta family dentist recommends choosing a toothbrush with a smaller brush head. Smaller brush heads allow for greater access to hard to reach areas of your mouth such as the backs of your lower front teeth, and the teeth at the very back of your mouth.
Soft Bristles Get The Job Done Gently
There's no need to use hard bristles to remove plaque from your teeth. A soft bristled toothbrush is ideal for most people. In fact, if you suffer from particularly sensitive teeth and/or signs of enamel erosion, a toothbrush with extra-soft bristles may be best. Ask your dentist what would be best for your teeth.
Choose a Handle That's Comfortable to Hold
The next time you're out shopping for a new toothbrush, take some time to find a model that fits nicely in your hand. You will be more likely to brush for the full two minutes that most dentists recommend, if your toothbrush is comfortable to use. A comfortable toothbrush handle will allow you better maneuverability. Using a toothbrush with a handle that is too long or bulky might prevent you from brushing as thoroughly as you should.
Are you brushing too hard?
Brushing harder does not mean brushing better! Avoid brushing too hard, think of brushing as massaging your teeth and gums. Vigorous scrubbing is completely unnecessary since plaque is fairly soft, loose and easy to remove. Brushing too hard can be harmful to your teeth and gums. Brush gently and be kind to your smile.
Are you brushing for long enough?
To thoroughly clean your teeth you should continue brushing for a full two minutes twice a day! If you have never timed yourself brushing, now is the time to start. You will probably be surprised at just how long two minutes is.
If you could use a little help timing the two minutes, there are a number of electric toothbrushes available equipped with built-in timers. Your toothbrush will let you know when you have brushed for the full two minutes. Or you could just use your watch or phone to time yourself until brushing for two minutes has become a habit.
Another helpful technique for brushing your way through two minutes, is to think of your mouth in four quarters. Take 30 seconds to focus only on one quadrant of your mouth, being sure to clean all areas of that section thoroughly, before moving on to the next quardrant.
OH, and of course, don't forget to floss! Your smile will thank you!