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1. You’re using your toothbrush for too long.
Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3 months, or when your bristles start to fray. Old toothbrushes will not effectively clean the teeth.
2. You aren’t brushing long enough!
On average, people only brush for 45 seconds. The recommended time to brush is 2 minutes, 2 times a day! We love electric toothbrushes like Goby and Oral-B that run for a full 2 minutes. It makes it easy to know you’re brushing long enough to remove plaque and bacteria that causes cavities and periodontal disease!
3. You’re using a hard-bristled toothbrush.
Hard toothbrushes are too abrasive on the gum tissue and actually lead to gum recession, or exposed root surface. When the gum tissue is scrubbed away it does not grow back on its own. Gum recession can lead to sensitivity and weakened teeth. Be sure to use a soft bristled toothbrush to avoid causing damage to your teeth!
4. You’re brushing after eating.
Whenever we eat or drink, we create a more acidic environment in our mouths. Because of this, you want to wait at least 30 minutes after a meal to brush in order to avoid brushing away your enamel and tooth structure.
5. You’re brushing your teeth at the wrong angle.
We recommend our patients hold their toothbrushes at a 45-degree angle and make short circular motions with the toothbrush. This allows for the toothbrush bristles to effectively clean beneath the gum tissue and also ensure that the toothbrush bristles are not being too aggressive on the gums.
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