Brushing is a skilful activity requiring proper techniques, as general dentistry recommends. Dr Ravin Patel and Dr Poonam Patel, dentists representing Australian-based Myra Smiles Dental Clinic, knows what it takes to streamline your brushing routine. Here are the common mistakes he highlights, which one should avoid to maintain a brighter and healthier smile through proper brushing.

1. Applying Too Much Pressure

One of the most common mistakes people make is applying excessive force. This is due to a common misconception that it is better for cleaning teeth, but it does significant harm. Aggressive brushing leads to tooth enamel erosion while leaving gums in an irritating state, which in turn results in gum recession. Because of this recession, the sensitive parts of your teeth get exposed, raising the risks of bone loss.

Avoid such a scenario by always brushing gently through a light touch. It should be more of a teeth massage rather than constantly scrubbing them. With light hands on the toothbrush, expect the cleaning to be done way more effectively.

2. Choosing the Wrong Toothbrush

Choosing the wrong toothbrush can severely affect oral health. Stiff bristles can damage both the enamel and the gums. Instead, soft or medium bristles must be used.

Even with medium or soft bristles, plaque and food particles can be removed, causing little to no harm to your teeth and gums. Check for the bristle packaging type before making a purchase. A brush with only soft bristles is ideal for your teeth.

3. Using an Old Toothbrush

A worn-out toothbrush tends to bend away from your teeth, reducing its effectiveness with the proper brushing technique. Get your toothbrush replaced every few months, especially when the bristles are bent or discoloured.

4. Brushing Too Frequently

Brushing teeth too often is as bad as brushing too hard. Like hard brushing, overbrushing leads to gradual enamel erosion and can irritate your gums, leading to gum recession. Brushing at least twice a day should be sufficient for any tooth type. Still, if you want to freshen your breath by cleaning your mouth, try rinsing with water or using mouthwash more.

5. Rushing through the Process

Brushing teeth should take at least two minutes, once or twice daily. Take your time to cut short this time, as doing so can leave plaque behind. Using a timer or an alarm on your phone for a two-minute tooth-cleaning session without compromising is better.

6. Brushing using Wrong Technique

The back-and-forth motion applied in brushing teeth is the most common mistake people make. Instead, circular motions should be applied to the gum line. It is wise to begin from the gum line and then move up and down circularly to avoid damaging your gums and teeth.

7. Neglecting the Gum Line

Bacteria are most likely to accumulate at the intersection of gums and teeth. Almost all of us spend more time on the chewing surfaces of our teeth, ignoring the gum line altogether. Try to angle your toothbrush at 45 degrees to your gums with small, gentle strokes applied to clean this area effectively. In addition, do not overlook brushing your tongue to eliminate additional bacteria that help freshen your breath.

8. Brushing Right After Eating

Brushing post-eating, and that too right away, can be harmful, especially if you have just consumed acidic foods. Wait 15 to 20 minutes after eating, or rinse your mouth with water.

Myra Smiles is the dental clinic to approach for your teeth!

Proper brushing technique and avoiding the mistakes recommended by dentist Dr Ravin Patel and Dr Poonam Patel, who works at Myra Clinic, is essential for maintaining oral health. If you have general dentistry questions or are planning your next visit to Myra Smiles at Richmond, Windsor, Kurrajong, Masdan Park, and Bligh Park, call us on 02 4578 2325 or email us at info@myrasmiles.com.au!