Common Oral Hygiene Mistakes and How to Correct Them

1. Using a toothbrush that is too hard

You should only use a soft or extra soft brush to protect your teeth and gums.

2. Brushing too hard
Even with a soft brush you can still be brushing too hard! Angle your toothbrush 45° to the gums and make small gentle strokes.

3. Not brushing long enough
Aim to brush for 2 full minutes 2 times a day. If your electric toothbrush has a built-in timer that’s ideal! If not, try a timer on your phone. You will be surprised to see how long 2 minutes is.

4. Using the wrong toothpaste
Our office does not recommend whitening toothpastes. They are too abrasive long term and can cause damage to the teeth and gums!

5. Not flossing or waterpiking
Approximately 40% of your teeth surfaces are IN BETWEEN your teeth. Without flossing or waterpik you are leaving those areas dirty!

6. Not changing your toothbrush often enough
Ideally, your toothbrush (or brush head refill on your electric) should be changed every 3 months at least!

7. Not cleaning your tongue
Plaque can form on your tongue and spread to your teeth. Use your toothbrush or specialized tongue cleaner to remove any plaque from your tongue. This can also help to freshen your breath!

8. Brushing too soon after having coffee or acidic drinks/snacks
It takes about 30-40 minutes for your saliva to get back into the “safe zone” of a neutral pH after enjoying a snack or drink.

9. Skipping the bedtime brush
Brush your teeth a minimum of two times a day! If brushing before bedtime is challenging you can brush whenever you are finished eating for the night. This way it is earlier and you aren’t as tired!

10. Rinsing with water after brushing
To maximize the benefits of your toothpaste it is best to just spit after brushing and not rinse with any water. The toothpaste is able to stay on your teeth longer.