
East Orange NJ Dentist shares the common errors made by all of us while brushing our teeth
What looks easy takes practice and the brushing of teeth is no exception. There are some common errors that everyone makes when using the toothbrush that your East Orange NJ dentist would like to address today.
First Error
The first error is that of flossing after you brush your teeth. Logically, if the objective of brushing the teeth is to remove food particles, then floss first and get all the particles out of their ‘hiding spots’. This will enable the fluoride in the toothpaste to get into all nooks and crannies of your teeth.
Second Error
The next common error is that of brushing too hard. This can wreak havoc on that sensitive tooth enamel. Do not use the brush as you would a saw to cut wood, going back and forth, but work the movement in tooth-wide circles. The bristles of the brush should be soft, regardless of what manufacturers put on the shelf of medium and hard bristles. Unless your East Orange NJ dentist recommends a hard or medium bristle for your teeth, soft bristle brushes are the way to go to protect those tender gums and sensitive enamel.
Third Error
Time goes by so fast and there is so much to do that we forget to check how the tooth bristles are faring and wearing from their repetitive use. A good rule of thumb is to replace your toothbrush every three months. Place a small piece of white tape on the brush and mark the date you began using if it helps remind.
Fourth Error
Another common error is squeezing out too much paste or gel onto the brush. You need only a pea-size amount, about half the small tooth surface.