It can be quite common for people to think that brushing twice daily for two minutes each is enough when it comes to brushing. In fact, there are a few mistakes that can be made whilst brushing your teeth. We’ve listed some of those mistakes below.
Not cleaning for long enough
The first mistake many people make when it comes to cleaning their teeth is not brushing for long enough. Did you know that the average duration adults brush their teeth for is just 45 seconds? Watch the video below to find out why it's so important to brush your teeth for longer:[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDr-IF1r5OQ[/embed]Make sure you are brushing your teeth for 2-minutes, twice a day. Here are a couple of ways of help keep track of time.• Invest in an electric toothbrush that features a timer setting. Most electric toothbrushes will buzz or beep every 30 seconds, meaning you can divide your mouth into four sections, (also known as quadrants) and brush accordingly.• Set a timer on your phone or smartwatch to keep track of how long you’re brushing for. Here is a great app to help you https://www.brushdj.com/
Using the wrong toothpaste
Many people aren’t aware that certain toothpastes do not contain fluoride. Adults need fluoride toothpaste as it plays a big part in preventing tooth decay. When you look on a toothpaste tube, you will notice that fluoride is measures in ppm (parts per million). Adults are recommended to use toothpastes that contain 1,350 to 1,500 ppm.
Brushing too hard
Brushing too hard can actually do more harm than good and does not leave your teeth any cleaner than brushing gently. Being too heavy-handed with your toothbrush can actually wear your teeth and lead to receding gums.
Rinsing your mouth
Did you know, many people believe they should rinse their mouth after brushing? When you brush your teeth, the fluoride in the toothpaste coats your teeth and leaves a protective layer over the enamel. That’s why dentists advise you not to rinse your mouth out straight after brushing as it rinses this protection away.
Keeping your toothbrush too close to the toilet
Did you know that when you flush the toilet there are millions of bacteria and particles that fill the air? Make sure you keep your toothbrush as far away from your toilet as possible to prevent bacteria landing on your brush. Flush your toilet with the seat down and if possible keep your toothbrush in your bathroom cabinet. You’d be surprised how far the particles can reach!
Not replacing your toothbrush or toothbrush heads
When it comes to changing your toothbrush, dental professionals advise changing your manual toothbrush every three months. The same is also said for your electric toothbrush heads. Over time, bristles become weak and worn, meaning that they do not clean as efficiently. Keep on track and pop a reminder in your calendar or smartphone to keep up-to-date on when you replace your brush-head or toothbrush. When you do throw it out please recycle it: https://www.bowlanedental.com/toothbrush-recycle. We have a great article on choosing the right toothbrush (https://www.bowlanedental.com/choose-the-right-toothbrush/)
Forgetting to clean your tongue
Forgetting to clean your tongue is a very common mistake most people make when brushing their teeth. Cleaning your tongue helps remove extra bacteria from your mouth and prevents it from spreading remaining bacteria back onto your teeth. Also, you can use your toothbrush but it is even more efficient if you use a tongue cleaner. You can buy them online and in your local chemists. You can also speak with our dental hygienists on how to clean your tongue effectively.
Not booking an appointment with your dental hygienist
Don’t forget, you still need to book in regular appointments with your dental hygienist. Our dental hygienists will help you improve your overall mouth health. They will help you work out the best ways to treat gums with love and also how to prevent gum disease too. You can book a hygiene appointment by emailing reception@bowlanedental.com or calling us on 020 7236 3600.
