Sure, you probably brush your teeth at least twice a day, just like most people. But are you actually doing it properly? Brushing your teeth is (or should be) like breathing or sleeping - something you instinctively do because it's necessary. It's something you've had to do from the moment you started to grow teeth, but the diligence with which you might have cleaned your teeth as a child might have fallen away during adulthood. Perhaps you're one of those people who just randomly scrubs at your teeth for 30 seconds and considers the job to be done. Regular, efficient tooth brushing can be your most effective weapon against dental problems, and doing it properly ensures that not much will need to be done the next time you visit your dentist. Do you make some of these common mistakes when brushing your teeth?

Too Little?

Two minutes is a good rule of thumb when it comes to brushing your teeth. Anything less than two minutes is insufficient; although, you could even go up to five minutes. This should happen at least two to three times each day.

Too Much?

Two to five minutes, two to three times each day is perfect, and you really shouldn't exceed this. Brushing your teeth too often means that you might be stripping enamel from your teeth, leaving them more vulnerable to decay.

Medium Is Best

You might think that a hard toothbrush will be the most efficient tool for removing debris, but this can also remove your precious tooth enamel. A toothbrush of medium hardness is generally sufficient, but your dentist might suggest an even softer brush, depending on your particular teeth. Whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush is entirely up to you since they're both capable of getting the job done. Replace your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every three months since they become less effective after this point.

The 30 Minute Rule

Be careful not to brush your teeth too soon after eating or drinking. You might want that "fresh mouth" feeling after eating something with a particularly strong taste, but you could be inadvertently damaging your teeth. Acids present in food or drink can linger in your mouth, and you might actually be forcing these acids into your teeth if you brush too soon. It's suggested that you wait 30 minutes before brushing, but if your schedule doesn't allow this, then thoroughly rinse your mouth with water before you brush.

Up and Down

Your brushing technique should not be a type of random scrubbing. Short up and down motions are the most effective, since this works with the natural miniscule ridges in your teeth. Side to side brushing can scrape along the gumline, causing irritation and even bleeding.

The art of effectively brushing your teeth is not difficult to master, but it's vital for continued dental health. Make sure you're not making these common tooth brushing mistakes! For more information, contact a business such as Geelong Implant Centre.

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