Mistake #6: Starting at the Same Spot Each Time
Most of us start brushing our teeth at the same spot. It’s a common mistake. When we start at a particular point every time we pick up a toothbrush, there is a high chance of getting lazy once we reach the last quadrant of our teeth. This means proper cleaning is not done.
To clean your teeth thoroughly, dentists recommend to start brushing in a different place each time. This way, all your teeth will get equal time and cleaning.
Mistake #7: Ignoring the Inner Surfaces of the Teeth
While brushing our teeth in the busy morning time, our minds might be preoccupied and we can forget to brush our teeth’s inner surfaces. Such a mistake can lead to a buildup of plaque on the inner surfaces. This can be just as damaging as the plaque on the front of your teeth.
When brushing, do not focus only on the front of your teeth because it’s the side that is most visible. You must also brush the inner surfaces of all your teeth to maintain good oral health.
Mistake #8: Not Rinsing Your Toothbrush After Use
In our rush to get out of the house in the morning or off to bed at night, we often don’t take time to rinse our toothbrush properly after using it. Due to this, bacteria and food debris remain on the bristles, which may cause infection and gum disease later on. Plus, it may cause the bristles on the brush to become hard.
To prevent reintroducing bacteria and other germs into your mouth the next time you brush, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each use. It is best to hold the toothbrush under running tap water for 1 minute and then allow it to air dry. This will help remove any leftover toothpaste, bacteria and food particles.
Mistake #9: Storing Your Toothbrush Wet
Perhaps you are already vigilant about rinsing your toothbrush after each use, but do you put it away in the bathroom cabinet when it is still wet?
A damp toothbrush becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, and the next time you use it, you are unknowingly introducing bacteria into your mouth, which can cause bad breath and other gum diseases.
To rectify this mistake, after rinsing your toothbrush, shake off the extra moisture and store it in a brush holder with a cap that allows air in. You can even dry out your toothbrush in the sun for a few minutes. Plus, you can keep two toothbrushes handy, so that one is always dry.
Mistake #10: Not Replacing Your Old Toothbrush
Many of us use a toothbrush as long as we can. But this is a big mistake that you must avoid. After using a toothbrush for a few months, the bristles start bending and become frayed. A toothbrush in this condition will not clean your teeth properly. Dental experts recommend replacing a toothbrush every 3 to 4 months.
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