Tooth Brushing Mistakes

By Dr. Sid Solomon

If you’re afraid of the dentist, you’ll be happy to know that there is plenty you can do at home to improve your oral health. You should still visit a dentist for routine cleanings, but these tips will help anyone maintain healthy teeth.

Using the Wrong Brush

The brush that you choose should conform to the size of your mouth. You want a brush that fits easily into your mouth without causing you to strain. The handle must be comfortable, and you should have a firm grip on the brush. Electric and manual tooth brushes come down to the user’s preference. An electric tooth brush promises no greater quality of brushing over manual, but some people just prefer to use one. If you’re concerned that your brush is wrong, or that you need un upgrade, try to keep in mind it’s less the brush and more the brusher.

Picking the Wrong Bristles

Tooth brushes tend to have two varieties of bristle, with one angled and the other straightened. Your technique will help you determine which is the best kind of bristle for you, but bristles that are too stiff can aggravate your gums and cause unnecessary damage like inflammation. The ideal bristle is sturdy enough to remove the thin film of plaque that forms on your teeth. Therefore, stay away from natural hair brushes made with animal hair or boar bristle.

Not Brushing Long Enough

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day if you can. Although three times is best, oral professionals have found that two times will suffice for removing plaque and keeping teeth healthy. Try to brush for at least two minutes, but extend that to three minutes if you can. Some dentists recommend that you divide your mouth into quadrants, then spend roughly thirty seconds on each area. If time is a factor, just multi task. Lots of people look at their phones or watch videos online while they brush.

Brushing Too Hard

Three times is generally the cap for the day. Anymore than that borders on compulsive and may affect the enamel on your teeth. Excessive brushing could expose the root, which quickly leads to irritation of both the root and the gums. Brush with long, horizontal strokes across the surface of your teeth, aiming your bristles at a 45 degree angle.

Final Thoughts

Don’t brush too hard, and keep your bristles on the softer side. This will protect your teeth from damage and keep your gums healthy over your lifetime.

Dr. Sid Solomon is a dental hygienist located in Los Angeles. With over twenty years of passionate experience, Sid Solomon is ready to serve you. Book an appointment, or read Dr. Sid Solomon DDS reviews online.