Most people brush their teeth at least once a day. Unfortunately, for many people, it’s a routine they want to get through as quickly as possible. Proper teeth brushing habits can keep away harmful plaque and bacteria from your teeth and help you maintain a healthy smile. We’re sharing a few mistakes you should avoid when you brush your teeth:

• You aren’t brushing long enough.

According to the American Dental Association, you need to brush for at least two minutes. This gives you a sufficient amount of time to cover all the surfaces of your teeth and give them a thorough cleaning. Any less than that and you aren’t doing a thorough enough job.

• You haven’t replaced your toothbrush.

You need to replace your toothbrush every three to four months. If it’s been at least that long, it’s time to get a new one. Make sure you purchase a soft bristle toothbrush that can comfortably fit inside your mouth.

• You aren’t using the right techniques.

It’s not just important to brush for two minutes, it’s also important you use the correct method. You’ll want to brush at a 45-degree angle towards your gumline and make circular motions. Don’t forget to clean the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces of your teeth.

• You are brushing too soon after eating or drinking something acidic.

If you have eaten a delicious pasta meal, or you have enjoyed a hot cup of coffee, it may be tempting to brush your teeth right away afterward. However, if you’ve enjoyed something acidic, you’ll need to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing. Otherwise, you risk damaging your tooth enamel in the process.

• You floss right after you brush.

Flossing is an important step in your oral care routine, but the timing needs to be right. If you floss after you brush, you aren’t able to brush away the food particles you caught while flossing. So, make sure you do it beforehand.

If you are wondering how your brushing habits have impacted your oral health overall, call Briarwood Valley Dentistry today at [phone] for a checkup in Kalamazoo, MI. You can also [contact_us text=”online”].