Brushing your teeth is something we’ve done for as long as we can remember—several times a day, every single day, 365 days a year. So, how is it possible that so many of us still struggle with cavities, gum inflammation, and plaque buildup? No toothpaste, toothbrush, or mouthwash commercial will stand in front of your bathroom mirror and brush every surface of your teeth for two full minutes. These are the 10 most common mistakes we make when brushing our teeth:
1. Brushing for Less Than 2 Minutes
If you brush for less than two minutes, there’s not enough time to clean all the surfaces thoroughly, or to let the fluoride in your toothpaste do its job. If you find it hard to count or set a timer every time, try using an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer.
2. Brushing with Back-and-Forth Motions
Teeth should never be scrubbed aggressively. Use gentle circular motions instead. Scrubbing can damage enamel and irritate the gums.
3. Brushing Too Frequently
Brushing twice a day—morning and evening—is enough. Overbrushing can actually harm your teeth and gums by wearing away enamel.
4. Brushing Immediately After Eating
Wait at least 30 minutes after a meal before brushing. Brushing too soon can rub acids into your enamel, causing more harm than good. Saliva naturally neutralizes acid, so give your mouth time to recover.
5. Forgetting to Brush Your Tongue
Whether with a regular toothbrush or a tongue scraper, cleaning your tongue is essential for daily oral hygiene. Bacteria on the tongue are a common cause of bad breath.
6. Using the Same Toothbrush for Too Long
Your toothbrush is your main tool for cleaning your teeth—yet many people go months without replacing it. Change your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
7. Using a Hard-Bristled Toothbrush
Hard bristles won’t clean better—they can damage your enamel and cause tooth sensitivity, often leading to fillings. Use soft or ultra-soft brushes and proper technique to remove plaque effectively and safely.
8. Not Using Dental Floss
Flossing is essential, especially if food gets stuck or your teeth are tightly spaced. Flossing after brushing or meals helps keep those in-between surfaces clean.
9. Not Using Interdental Brushes
Many people don’t know these brushes exist. If you skip them, two out of five tooth surfaces (those touching adjacent teeth) may never get cleaned. Regular brushes can’t reach these areas, which are common starting points for cavities.
10. Believing There’s a “Best” Toothpaste
This is a common myth. Most toothpastes are helpful, but none can compensate for a poor brushing technique, a bad toothbrush, or brushing for only 30 seconds. Choose one that you enjoy using—flavor matters more than you think.
How to Brush Your Teeth Properly
Wondering what proper brushing actually looks like? Here’s a simple guide:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
- Brush gently in circular motions—no hard pressure.
- Cover all surfaces: outer, inner, and chewing sides.
- Brush your tongue and the inside of your cheeks.
- Finish with dental floss or interdental brushes to reach between the teeth.
This consistent and gentle approach goes a long way in preventing cavities and gum disease.
