1 in every 4 adults aged 20-64 has at least one cavity. Your teeth cleaning routine might seem straightforward, but it’s not. If you neglect the mistakes, you might end up with tooth decay despite regular brushing.
There are different types of toothbrushes; using the wrong one can do more harm than good. Not many people know about this, but we are here to help. Keep reading to avoid these common teeth cleaning mistakes.
1. Using the Wrong Brush
Soft bristles clean more efficiently than their hard counterparts. The abrasive bristles can erode tooth enamel, leading to gum recession. Make sure the bristles can flex and reach below the gum.
There are various sizes and angles for brush handles. Some are more accommodating than others. The head size of the brush should fit in your mouth.
2. Brushing Too Harshly
Tougher is not always better. Plaques are often soft and loose, so there is no need to scrub them like a dirty floor. It’s better to brush lightly for a longer duration.
3. Rushing It
You should clean your teeth at least twice daily for two minutes every session. If you are tardy for school and work or you want to go to bed, you may rush it. That two minutes may turn into 45 seconds.
Use an egg timer to ensure you hit the two-minute mark. You can also listen to music while brushing your teeth. A typical song often lasts for 2-3 minutes, so you can stop brushing when the song ends.
4. Holding On for Too Long
When you discover an excellent toothbrush, it might be difficult to abandon it. If you see changes in the bristles, such as discoloration or bending, it’s time to toss the brush.
The bristles lose their effectiveness as they get frayed. That is why you should change it every three to four months. Don’t share your brush with anybody; keep it open to the air to prevent mold from moisture.
5. Brushing in the Wrong Direction
Don’t brush your teeth from left to right. Think massage, not scrape. Start from the gum and go up and down in circular movements.
When to See Your Dentist?
The standard recommendation is to see the dentist every six months. If you don’t have any dental concerns, you can go for as long as a year. If you are prone to dental issues, go every three to four months.
Symptoms of tooth decay may not be painful and often go unnoticed. If you have dental caries, you may experience:
- Toothache
- Sharp pain when drinking or eating
- Holes
- Tooth sensitivity
- Brown or black stain
- Pain when biting down
Your provider will take an x-ray to find the decay and fill up the hole. If you don’t consult your dentist in time, it can be a more painful experience. This will eventually require a root canal or tooth extraction.
Thoughts on Common Teeth Cleaning Mistakes
Improving dental health through brushing your teeth may seem pretty straightforward. However, everyone seems to make some common mistakes listed above. Whether it’s using the wrong toothbrush or not brushing correctly, a lot can go wrong.
Low-quality teeth cleaning products can also be a nightmare. If you feel any pain or abnormality, talk to your dentist. Check out our blog posts for more information on common teeth cleaning mistakes.
