Even the most proficient brusher can miss spots, use the wrong technique, or rush, which can impact oral health. Simply brushing your teeth twice daily won’t keep bacteria and plaque at bay.
Brushing teeth correctly is vital. So, to help you understand how to go about this correctly, we’ve got expert insights on general dentistry for peak oral health in this guide.
How to Brush Your Teeth Correctly
Brushing teeth mistakes are much more common than you may realise. Over time, they can develop poor oral health habits, leading to an unexpected dentist trip. To help keep your teeth in the best shape, and so you can lead a happier and healthier life, here are the bad teeth brushing habits to avoid.
1. Rushing your brushing
Most dentists will recommend brushing for two minutes a day, twice a day. It figures that the longer you brush, the more plaque you remove.
Two minutes is longer than you think, and unless you’re timing yourself, chances are you’ll cut your brushing short. To help keep you brushing for longer, try using a timer or an electric toothbrush that buzzes at 30-second intervals to keep you on track.
2. Rinsing not spitting
Rinsing your teeth after brushing can feel remarkably normal. However, if you do, you’re washing away the concentrated fluoride in the toothpaste.
The fluoride contains enamel-protecting properties that help to prevent decay. And that goes for mouthwash, too. While mouthwash contains fluoride and can prevent decay, using it directly after brushing is counter-intuitive. By rinsing, you’re diluting your efforts. Try to just spit after brushing and save your rinsing for another time in the day.
3. Using the Wrong Toothpaste
There isn’t one brand of toothpaste that is miles better than all the others. However, there are plenty out there that just don’t cut it. When it comes to toothpaste, you need one that contains enough fluoride to help prevent decay. And your diet shouldn’t affect your ability to use a decent fluoride toothpaste.
There are vegan alternatives and eco-friendly brands, meaning you can stick to your principles and ensure your teeth are getting what they need.
4. Using the Wrong Toothbrush
There’s an ongoing debate about whether an electric or manual toothbrush is the best. It’s worth noting that an electric toothbrush makes it easier to clean those wisdom teeth at the back properly.
Also, an electric toothbrush can help prevent you from applying too much pressure by flashing a light. However, the most important thing is the bristles on your brush.
Soft or medium are best, as they let you clean your teeth without causing damage. You’ll want a small to medium-sized brush head. That way, you can focus on brushing each tooth individually rather than trying to brush them all together.
Finally, make sure you change your toothbrush every three months or so, otherwise, you’ll be using less effective worn-down bristles and your brush might start to harbour bacteria.
5. Brushing incorrectly
You need to know what to do with the right toothbrush and toothpaste and what to do with them. The brushing technique is really important. If you brush too hard, you can end up causing more harm than good.
What might seem surprising is that, as well as potentially leading to receding gums, brushing harder won’t make your teeth any cleaner.
You need to brush each tooth gently and carefully. Brush at a slight angle and focus on one tooth at a time, using circular movements.
6. Getting Your Timing Wrong
If you’ve managed to get it right with all the other points, are you brushing at the right time? You don’t want to run for a toothbrush the moment after you eat acidic foods.
Certain foods can remove the protective layer of saliva from your teeth and make brushing too abrasive. You’re better off rinse your mouth and wait at least 30 minutes before you brush. And make sure your twice-a-day brushing is at the right time.
First thing in the morning and before bed are standard, but the nighttime brush is the most important. Remove the day’s build-up of food and bacteria before you get your head down.
How to Brush Your Teeth Properly
How to brush your teeth correctly relies on using the right tools and techniques. We’ll cover the core best practices you need to keep yourself in peak oral health:
- Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush (electric or non-electric). These are gentler on your gums
- Use a fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash, which helps to strengthen your tooth enamel
- Brush for two minutes twice daily while holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth
- Use a gentle, circular motion across the outer and inner layers of your teeth
- Don’t forget to brush the teeth at the back of your mouth
- You may also want to brush your tongue, which can remove bacteria
We have a few more tips on how to keep your teeth clean. The best time to brush your teeth is around 30 minutes to an hour after eating (morning and night). You can support your oral health further by using dental floss and mouthwash.his, but they can help you with specific brushing problems for your teeth. Whatever we do in life, we can always do better, and that certainly applies to teeth brushing. And, when it comes to dental care, prevention is always much better than cure.
Book a Dentist Appointment Today at Bexley Dental
Book your dental assessment with our friendly team in Sydney, Australia. Headed by our highly experienced principal dentist, Dr. Theo Spyrakis™, we’ll keep your oral health in peak condition and can recommend life-changing treatments.
How Long Should You Brush Your Teeth?
For two minutes is the ideal amount of time. You should do this twice daily after waiting at least 30 minutes after eating.
Should You Rinse After Brushing Teeth?
We recommend you don’t rinse after brushing your teeth. Using fluoride toothpaste can wash away the benefits, as you won’t benefit from the same enamel-strengthening qualities.
How Many Times Should You Spit When Brushing Teeth?
There isn’t a limit to the number of times. While brushing, simply spit out any excess toothpaste and do so again when you’ve finished.
