Brushing your teeth is an important part of daily health care. There is however the correct way to do it, which most people do not take into consideration. Improper brushing often leads to: oral cavities, gum disease, periodontal disorders among other side effects.

Tips for proper brushing of teeth

• Place your toothbrush at a 45-angle degree to your gum.
• Gently move the brush back and forth in short strokes.
• Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
• To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush and move up-and-down strokes.
• Brush the tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

Common mistakes in brushing

• Picking on the wrong toothbrush

Most people often take the wrong toothbrush not recommended by dentists. The correct toothbrush must have bristles that can bend, not the tough bristles. It is usually assumed that the rough bristles brush better, but that is not the case. Tough bristles tend to wear out the enamel part of the tooth prematurely.

• Brushing in a rush

The recommended time is usually 2-3 minutes, but most people brush in 30 to 40 seconds. The result is improper brushing.

• Brushing too hard

Most people often brush their teeth roughly with a mentality that they become cleaner. That’s usually not the case. Receding gums is a common problem with people who brush too vigorously. The irritation caused by this action can cause inflammation and shrinkage of the gum tissue.

• Picking on an old toothbrush

The bristles tend to wear out from the toothbrush with time. The toothbrush should be replaced after every 2-3 months. An old brush won’t brush properly.