Flossing and brushing are the basics of oral hygiene, yet most of us still make easy errors. These errors can prevent you from having the maximum oral hygiene and leave your gums and teeth vulnerable to cavities and gum disease. Interestingly, even those who brush daily may fall short of the mark.

This guide is meant to help you steer clear of those common brushing and flossing errors. By correcting them, you’ll gain a cleaner, whiter smile and prevent costly dental procedures.

5 Mistakes People Make Brushing and Flossing

Mistake #1: Brushing Too Hard

Brushing too hard is a misadventure in getting your teeth super clean. However, it’s really more of a harm than a benefit. Hard brushing damages your enamel and gives your gums a soreness, which leads to sensitivity and gum recession.

Rather, use a soft-bristled toothbrush with light strokes. Soft bristles remove plaque off without any damage. Go round and round, as this is more efficient compared to forceful back-and-forth scrabbling.

Gently brushing keeps your enamel and gums healthy and results in healthier overall oral health.

Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Toothbrush

Not all toothbrushes are created equal. While a hard-bristled brush might feel powerful, it will erode tooth enamel over time. A very stiff-bristled brush will hurt your gums as well.

According to a professional dentist in Los Angeles,  you must choose a toothbrush whose head is small enough to comfortably fit in your mouth and has soft bristles. If your brush head is small enough, you will be able to brush those hard-to-reach areas. The electric toothbrush will also help make it more effortless and effective.

You can buy a toothbrush that has soft bristles so as not to ruin your enamel and gums.

Mistake #3: Not Brushing for Long Enough

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a two-minute brushing to be able to effectively remove plaque and bacteria. Many people do not brush for long enough, but instead take a quick pass over their teeth.

Brushing hurriedly leads to the buildup of plaque, which can create cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Most people do not touch their back teeth or gum line, where plaque sticks.

Use a timer or electric toothbrush with a built-in timer to ensure you’re brushing for the full two minutes.

Mistake #4: Skipping Flossing

Brushing alone isn’t enough to maintain optimal oral health. Flossing is crucial to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and along the gumline. Ignoring this step increases your risk of cavities and gum disease.

Floss reaches areas that brushing by itself can’t. Flossing also stops gingivitis, which is the beginning of gum disease. Floss every day, or at least once a day, especially before bed, to ensure healthy gums and teeth.

You must develop the habit of flossing.  As per a qualified dentist in Los Angeles, it’s just as essential as brushing in keeping up oral health.

Mistake #5: Flossing Incorrectly

Many are unaware that there exists a right and wrong method of flossing. Snapping the floss from tooth to tooth or not bringing the floss below the gum level will leave some plaque behind. This causes inflammation and gum disease.

To floss correctly, use a gentle sawing motion and ensure you’re wrapping the floss around each tooth in a “C” shape. Glide the floss down to the gum line, then gently pull it up.

Floss gently and make sure to clean both sides of each tooth and the gumline.

Regular brushing and flossing are essential to keeping your oral health on the right path. Steer clear of the dangers of over-brushing, with the improper toothbrush, or flossing. Utilize the proper tools and techniques to keep your gums and teeth healthy.

Regular check-ups and professional cleanings by your dentist will keep you in line. By eliminating these easily-made errors, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier smile.

Are you prepared to take your brushing and flossing to the next level? If yes, schedule a consultation with Westwood Dental Esthetics today. Your professional and compassionate dentist will lead you to oral well-being with proper guidance and tailored attention.