I’m a dentist – avoid these mistakes when brushing your teeth

Brushing your teeth is such a regular part of our daily routines that you probably don’t even think about it.

But you could be making easy-to-fix mistakes that undermine the daily routine on which your oral health largely rests.

These include not watching your tongue and letting an old brush hang around for too long.

Payal Bhalla, Chief Dentist and Clinical Director of Quest Dental in Ipswich, Suffolk, has now revealed some unexpected blunders you could be guilty of, such as brushing the same every time.

Speaking to FEMAIL, she explained the five different mistakes you could be making — and how each can ultimately lead to tooth loss.

1. Brushing TOO SHORT

“I usually recommend brushing for at least two minutes twice a day,” Payal explains.

“This duration is crucial because it allows enough time to thoroughly clean all surfaces of your teeth, including hard-to-reach areas.”

She said it’s essential to spread the two minutes evenly between the top and bottom teeth, “as well as focusing on the front, back and chewing surfaces” to ensure a comprehensive clean.

The dentist also advises using a “gentle circular motion” to reach all areas, including the gum line.

This helps remove plaque, food debris and bacteria.

Payal explained, “Two minutes is a general guideline, and some individuals may need more or less time depending on their specific oral health needs.”

‘Insufficient brushing time can leave harmful substances behind, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.

“In addition, the recommended duration ensures that the fluoride in toothpaste has sufficient contact with your teeth, which promotes remineralization and strengthening of the enamel.”

2. IGNORE THE TONGUE

Payal revealed that it is “crucial” to never ignore the tongue when brushing your teeth.

“The tongue is a haven for bacteria, food particles and dead cells, making it a potential breeding ground for bad breath and oral health problems,” she added.

“Neglecting the tongue during oral hygiene routines can cause these harmful substances to build up, leading to an unpleasant odor and an increased risk of dental problems.”

This can contribute to plaque buildup, tooth decay and even gum disease.

And if you don’t take care of your tongue, all your good tooth brushing may have been for naught, as you leave behind a “significant source of oral bacteria.”

“Including tongue cleaning as part of your oral hygiene routine by brushing gently or using a tongue scraper helps remove bacteria buildup, promote fresh breath, and contribute to overall oral health and hygiene,” suggested Payal.

3. Brushing TOO HARD

The dental expert says brushing too hard can have “negative consequences” – even though it may feel like you’re putting more work into it.

“Brushing your teeth vigorously or using excessive force can cause damage to your gums and tooth enamel,” Payal warned.

“The enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth and when it wears away it can lead to tooth sensitivity, cavities and an increased risk of tooth decay.”

Being aggressive with your technique can also irritate and damage your gums.

“Plus, brushing too hard doesn’t necessarily mean you’re brushing your teeth more effectively,” Payal said.

“It is recommended to use a gentle and circular motion with a soft-bristled toothbrush to effectively remove plaque and food debris without damaging your teeth or gums.

“It’s important to strike the right balance of brushing your teeth thoroughly but gently to maintain optimal oral health.”

4. DO NOT CHANGE YOUR BRUSH FREQUENTLY ENOUGH

“Regularly replacing your toothbrush is crucial for good oral hygiene and avoiding potential dangers,” the dental professor warned.

If you don’t, you can run several risks. Over time, toothbrush bristles fray and become less effective at removing plaque and food debris from your teeth and gums.”

This can lead to bacteria build-up, increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.

“In addition, an old toothbrush can harbor harmful bacteria and pathogens, which pose a risk of infection or disease,” she said.

“It is recommended that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become worn, ensuring optimal oral health and reducing potential hazards.”

5. BRUSHING YOUR TEETH IN THE SAME PATTERN

Using the same pattern every day can mean missing important areas on a daily basis, Payal explains.

“When brushing your teeth, there are some key movements and patterns that the dentist would advise, this is to make sure you clean every part of the tooth and don’t miss any spots,” she said.

‘If you always brush your teeth in the same pattern every day, for example starting at the top left and ending at the bottom right, chances are you’re missing spots every day.

“To avoid that, you need to change the pattern in which you brush your teeth.

“You may have to focus on your brushing, but this will ensure that the teeth are properly cleaned and no spots are missing.”