5 Brushing Mistakes You Might Be Making

You already know that brushing your teeth is the most important way that you can protect yourself from cavities or the need for a root canal in Doylestown, PA. However, did you know that there’s a right and wrong way to brush your teeth?

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Brush up on your brushing technique by checking to see if you’re making any one of these five common brushing mistakes!

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● Not brushing long or often enough. Think 30 seconds is enough time to clear out the germs in your mouth? Think again! The American Dental Association recommends brushing for a minimum of two minutes, two times a day. Don’t be afraid to spend a little more time in front of the mirror in the morning and before you go to bed.

● Using a stiff bristle brush. Stiff bristled brushes are often too harsh for our sensitive gums and teeth. When shopping for a toothbrush, look for one with soft or ultra-soft bristles.

● Not spending enough time on oral hygiene. In addition to brushing for two minutes (which is a lot longer than most people think!), the American Dental Association also recommends flossing once per day. The next time you brush, try setting the timer on your phone to ensure you’re getting the full two minutes in!

● Using a poor brushing technique. Too many people focus only on the outer surface of their teeth when brushing and ignore the inner surfaces. Place your brush at a 45-degree angle, and gently move in slow, tooth-wide strokes. Remember to brush the inside of the tooth as well as the chewing surface!

● Using a worn toothbrush. Using a worn or chewed-up toothbrush will seriously hurt your oral hygiene. The American Dental Association recommends replacing the toothbrush once every three months or when the bristles start to fray.

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While brushing your teeth is a crucial step to maintaining a beautiful and healthy smile, regular visits to your dentist or endodontist in Doylestown, PA are just as important! If you’ve been putting off a cleaning, give Bash Dental a call today for assistance!