Mistakes You’re Making When Brushing Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth is such a set habit in our day-to-day routines that you probably don’t even think about it. But you could be making easy-to-fix mistakes that undermine the daily ritual which your oral health largely relies on. These include not paying attention to your tongue, as well as keeping an old brush around for too long.
BRUSHING FOR TOO SHORT A TIME
I typically advise brushing for a minimum of two minutes, twice a day,’ Payal explained. ‘This duration is crucial because it allows enough time to thoroughly clean all surfaces of your teeth, including hard-to-reach areas.’She said that splitting the two minutes evenly between the upper and lower teeth is key, ‘as well as focusing on the front, back, and chewing surfaces’ to ensure comprehensive cleaning. The dentist also advises using a ‘gentle circular motion’ to reach all areas, which includes the gumline. This helps to remove plaque, food particles and bacteria.
IGNORING THE TONGUE
‘The tongue is a haven for bacteria, food particles, and dead cells, making it a potential breeding ground for bad breath and oral health issues,’ she added. ‘Neglecting the tongue during oral hygiene routines can allow these harmful substances to accumulate, leading to an unpleasant odor and an increased risk of dental problems.’ This could contribute to plaque formation, tooth decay and even gum disease. And if you don’t take care of your tongue, all your good tooth-brushing may have been for nothing as you’re leaving behind a ‘significant source of oral bacteria’.
BRUSHING TOO HARD
The dental expert says that brushing too hard can have ‘negative consequences’ – even if it may feel like you’re putting more work in. ‘When you brush your teeth vigorously or use excessive force, it can cause damage to your gums and tooth enamel,’ Payal warned. ‘The enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth, and if it wears away, it can lead to tooth sensitivity, cavities, and an increased risk of tooth decay.’ Being aggressive with your technique could also irritate and damage your gums.