Six Common Brushing Mistakes Chandler Residents Should Avoid for Healthier Teeth

If you are looking for ways to fix your brushing mistakes, you have actually taken the initial step towards better oral health. According to a recent YouGov study, roughly 23% of Americans report going two or more days without brushing their teeth in a year. Brushing twice a day, along with regular flossing, offers significant benefits for your oral health. People who neglect to brush daily are at high risk of tooth decay, periodontal disease, and other serious health issues, including stained teeth. However, with consistent brushing and flossing, you can have a healthy smile and reduce the risk of these problems. 

We are at Shumway Dental Care, serving patients in Chandler and the surrounding areas, including South, Central, North, and West Chandler, Sun Groves, Clemente Ranch, and Ocotillo. Our team provides practical, useful advice on brushing and overall dental care. We recommend patients have a solid, strict oral care routine every single day, with zero negotiation. 

Thanks for taking the time to learn about common brushing mistakes and how to fix them. We hope you will know the proper way to brush and floss. Dr. Andy Shumway loves helping patients from Chandler and beyond keep their smiles healthy. Your first step towards better oral care begins here. Schedule an appointment and visit our dental practice. 

Stop Making These Mistakes While You Brush Your Teeth Daily 

• Brushing Too Hard

You might think that applying more pressure to your teeth while brushing is better. But it is not the case. Aggressive or harsh brushing actually causes gum issues, leading to swollen gums and even bleeding. It can even lead to tooth sensitivity or loose teeth. 

Generally, a trusted family dentist in Chandler or from a nearby location recommends brushing with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Soft bristles are gentle on your teeth and will flex more on the gumline. 

• Not Brushing Long Enough as Recommended

According to the American Dental Association, it is good to brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes. However, many patients rush through this process, mainly during their busy morning schedules. 

Dentists generally advise dividing the mouth into 4 sections and spending at least 30 seconds on each section. Proper brushing time ensures that plaque is removed from all tooth surfaces. 

• Using The Wrong Toothbrush

Choosing the right toothbrush plays an important role in your overall oral hygiene. It is better to use a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits comfortably in the mouth, replace it every 3-4 months, and change it immediately if the bristles are frayed. 

• You Are Missing Out On The Important Sites 

Missing important areas inside your mouth while you brush is also a common mistake. Brushing involves giving equal time to all areas, targeting the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as the gums and roof of your mouth. Most people do not consider these while brushing, making it easy to skip the hard-to-reach sites. 

• Ignoring the Tongue

If you do not brush your tongue while brushing your teeth, it can lead to bacterial buildup that causes bad breath. Hence, it is recommended to gently brush your tongue or use the tongue scraper to remove the bacteria and keep your breath fresh. 

• Using the Wrong Toothpaste

Using the wrong toothpaste, one without fluoride or not suitable for your dental needs, can negatively impact your oral health. Choose a fluoride toothpaste that strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. If you are suffering from sensitive teeth, choose a toothpaste that is designed for sensitivity. 

Motivation For Improving Your Toothbrushing Habit 

Here’s what you can do to improve your daily toothbrushing habit-

1. Add reminders to your daily routine for reducing the risk of forgetting to brush. For instance, set up alarms on your phone or calendar. 
2. Set small rewards for yourself when you brush your teeth daily. It will motivate you to improve these habits. 
3. Use your favourite toothbrush and toothpaste to make the process more enjoyable. 

Additional Tips for Better Brushing

1. Floss Daily- flossing removes the food particles and plaque in between the teeth, where brushing cannot reach
2. Use A Good Quality Mouthwash- rinsing your mouth with a fluoride mouthwash helps protect your teeth and freshen up your breath. 
3. Schedule Daily Oral Checkups– visit a dentist in Chandler for oral health every 6 months for professional cleaning and advice on how to improve brushing routine. 

Choose Shumway Dental Care for Oral Health Solutions

Who knew that brushing your teeth could be so complicated? It’s a habit most of us learned when we were young, and it might be surprising to learn that you are doing it wrong to this day. Luckily, Dr. Andy Shumway and his team at our Chandler dental office are here to help you kick your boring brushing habits and get you back on track. If you have more questions, make an appointment today. 

FAQs

How long should I brush my teeth?

Brushing for at least two minutes is essential to effectively clean all surfaces of your teeth. Dividing your mouth into sections and brushing for 30 seconds in each area ensures proper coverage. For best results, don’t rush—take your time!

What kind of toothbrush should I use?
A soft-bristled toothbrush is ideal, as it’s gentle on your gums and enamel. Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles are worn. If you need advice on selecting the right one, consult your dentist.

Why is brushing too hard bad for my teeth?
Brushing with excessive pressure can cause gum recession and tooth sensitivity. It’s important to brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your gums and enamel, which can lead to better long-term oral health.

Do I need to brush my tongue too?
Yes, brushing your tongue is important for fresh breath and preventing bacterial buildup. Gently use your toothbrush or a tongue scraper to remove bacteria that cause bad breath and contribute to plaque buildup.

Is it necessary to floss every day?
Yes, flossing is crucial for removing plaque and food particles between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. It helps prevent gum disease and cavities, contributing to a healthier smile overall.

How often should I visit the dentist?
Regular dental checkups every six months are recommended to ensure professional cleaning and address any concerns before they become serious issues. Early intervention can help maintain your oral health and prevent future problems.

What toothpaste should I use?
Choose a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your enamel and prevent cavities. If you have sensitive teeth, opt for a toothpaste designed for sensitivity to reduce discomfort. For personalised recommendations, talk to your dentist during your next visit.