Kids and Teeth from Babyhood to University

Maintaining proper levels of oral hygiene can reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities. However, there is much more to maintaining good oral health than simply wiggling your toothbrush around your mouth for a few minutes. Below is a guide to 4 common oral hygiene errors you should avoid.

Not spending enough time brushing

You should brush your teeth twice a day to spend at least two minutes. If you brush your teeth for any shorter time, you will not remove all of the plaque which has built up on your teeth. This encourages the growth of bacteria which lead to tooth decay. To ensure you brush for at least 2 minutes, you could play a favourite song while you brush your teeth or invest in an electric toothbrush which has an inbuilt timer.

Using the incorrect brushing technique

If you are not using the correct brushing technique, brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes, will not protect your oral health. Many people make the mistake of only brushing the front of their teeth, neglecting to clean the back surface or the gum line. You should clean every accessible surface of your teeth. You can increase the amount of plaque removed by brushing using small circular motions and tilting your toothbrush at an angle of 45 degrees to the gum line. If you use an electric toothbrush to clean your teeth, you do not need to manually move it over the surface. You can simply hold the brush against your teeth at a 45-degree angle and allow the brush to oscillate.

Using the wrong type of toothbrush

Dental professionals recommend using a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head. If you are using a toothbrush which is too large, you may find it hard to clean difficult to reach parts of your mouth, while hard bristles can damage your gums.

Not Flossing

Brushing your teeth will not remove any food debris or plaque which is trapped in the tight spaces between your teeth. Not cleaning these areas can lead to problems such as cavities, gum disease ad bad breath. You should floss after brushing your teeth to ensure they are completely clean.

By avoiding these common oral health mistakes, you can keep your teeth and gum healthy and your smile shining. If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, book an appointment with your dentist today.