Your dental health is of utmost importance, and maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial in preventing issues such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Brushing your teeth is a fundamental aspect of oral care, but you might be surprised to know that this task is often done incorrectly. Since suboptimal brushing techniques can compromise your dental health, knowing if you’re brushing correctly is essential.
Here are the top signs that could mean you’re brushing your teeth wrong.
Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth are one of the first signs that you may be brushing your teeth incorrectly. This happens when you use a toothbrush with stiff bristles and brush your teeth with too much force. Both factors can wear away the tooth enamel over time, especially if you aren’t waiting at least 30 minutes after meals to brush.
If you have sensitive teeth or your toothbrush is wearing down quickly, it may indicate that you are brushing too forcefully. Harsh brushing isn’t necessary to clean your teeth, so use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle when cleaning your pearly whites [1]!
Irritated or Bleeding Gums
Just as harsh brushing and a toothbrush with firm bristles can damage tooth enamel, they can damage gum tissue. Harsh brushing can cause irritated or bleeding gums, which can also begin to recede from the teeth, causing tooth sensitivity and longer-looking teeth.
Of course, irritated or bleeding gums can also be signs of gum disease, so it’s imperative to follow up with your dentist to discuss your brushing techniques and have your smile evaluated for gum inflammation and disease [2].
Recurrent Bad Breath
If you struggle with bad breath despite regular brushing and flossing, it might mean you’re not cleaning your teeth effectively. Not brushing your teeth properly can cause food particles, plaque, and bacteria to build up in the mouth, leading to persistent halitosis. Flossing is also meant to supplement brushing by removing plaque and food particles from between the teeth for a complete oral care routine [3].
Plaque Buildup and Tartar Formation
Excessive plaque and tartar accumulation despite regular brushing could suggest ineffective brushing habits. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, can harden into tartar, leading to bad breath, gum irritation, and tooth decay [4].
If you brush your teeth every day but are still experiencing plaque and tartar, it’s time to review your oral care routine with your dentist. Some people consistently miss spots in their mouth when brushing, which can lead to plaque accumulation and tooth damage, so having insight into your brushing techniques can help you improve your smile and oral health.
How to Brush Your Teeth Properly
Here are a few steps you can take to brush your teeth properly and protect your smile:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions while brushing to prevent damage to your teeth and gums.
- Brush for at least two minutes twice a day, making sure you brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the backs of your front teeth.
- Pay special attention to your gum line and the back teeth, as these areas are often overlooked.
- Don’t forget to floss daily and clean your tongue to remove bacteria and food particles.
How Well Are You Brushing Your Teeth?
Evaluating and correcting your brushing technique is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile. If you recognize any of the signs mentioned above, consider adjusting your brushing habits and consulting with a dental professional to receive guidance on proper oral care practices. By recognizing and addressing incorrect brushing techniques, you can enhance your dental hygiene and preserve the health and beauty of your smile!
Sources:
1. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/brushing-up-on-brushing
2. https://dentistry.uic.edu/news-stories/the-warning-signs-of-gum-disease/
3. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/bad-breath
4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/plaque-vs-tartar
