“The Dos and Don’ts of Brushing Your Teeth for Optimal Oral Health”

The amount of time you devote to brushing your teeth, or the way you handle your toothbrush, can be a way to make mistakes that harm your oral health.

Pyal Bhalla, a British dentist, explained that not brushing your teeth long enough is one of the wrong things that many people do, advising to brush teeth for at least two minutes twice a day.

Dividing the two minutes evenly between the upper and lower teeth, as well as concentrating on the front, back and chewing surfaces, ensures a thorough cleaning, according to the Daily Mail.

bacteria and dead cells

It’s important to note that two minutes is a general guideline, Bhalla added, and some individuals may need more or less time depending on their specific oral health needs.

One of the mistakes that is also committed is neglecting to make sure to clean your tongue, which is a haven for bacteria, food particles and dead cells, which makes it a breeding ground for bad breath and oral health problems.

Bacteria on the tongue can contribute to plaque, tooth decay and gum disease, so brushing or using a tongue scraper can ensure that bacteria are removed and increase the likelihood of your breath being fresh.

tooth enamel

The British doctor warned that when you brush your teeth vigorously, this can cause damage to your gums and tooth enamel, which is the protective outer layer of your teeth.

Rough brushing can also irritate and damage the gums, leading to gum sensitivity and even gum disease.

The best way is to use a gentle, circular motion with a soft-bristled toothbrush, making sure to replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months.