How Not to Brush Our Teeth?

How Many Times a Day Should We Brush Our Teeth?

One common mistake is brushing teeth only once a day or only when it feels necessary. According to scientific guidelines, teeth should be brushed:

• At least 2 times a day

• In the morning and before going to bed

Brushing is especially critical at night due to reduced saliva flow during sleep.

How Long Should Brushing Take?

Brushing for just a few seconds is not sufficient to clean the bacterial plaque on the tooth surfaces.

Correct duration:
Each brushing session should last at least 2 minutes.

This duration ensures effective cleaning of all tooth surfaces.

Is It Right to Brush Your Teeth Immediately After Eating?

Acidic foods and drinks (fruit juice, cola, lemon, vinegar, etc.) temporarily soften tooth enamel. Brushing right after consuming such foods can lead to enamel erosion.

Correct approach:

• Wait 30–60 minutes after acidic foods

• In the meantime, rinse your mouth with water or chew sugar-free gum

How Not to Brush Our Teeth? (Common Mistakes)

The following habits can harm your teeth:

• Applying strong pressure

• Using a hard-bristled toothbrush

• Rubbing teeth horizontally and forcefully

• Only brushing the front teeth

• Neglecting interdental areas and tongue

• Using a worn-out toothbrush for a long time

These mistakes can eventually lead to gum recession, sensitivity, and permanent damage to tooth enamel.

How to Brush Properly? (Step by Step)

One of the most recommended techniques by dentists is the Modified Bass technique. This method maximizes plaque removal while preserving gum health.

1. Choose the Right Brush and Toothpaste

• Prefer a toothbrush with soft bristles

• Use quality toothpaste that provides gentle cleaning

• The brush head should be of a suitable size for your mouth

2. Position the Toothbrush at the Right Angle

• Position the toothbrush where the gum meets the tooth

• At a 45-degree angle

This angle allows for cleaning where bacteria are most densely present at the gum line.

3. Brush with Gentle and Controlled Movements

• Without applying strong pressure

• Using short, vibrating or small circular motions

• Brush each group of teeth for about 10–15 seconds

The goal is to gently remove plaque, not press it away.

4. Clean All Tooth Surfaces in Sequence

During brushing, the following surfaces should be cleaned:

• Front surfaces of the teeth

• Back (inner) surfaces

• Chewing surfaces

• Hard-to-reach areas of the back teeth

Progressing in order (for example, starting from the upper right and continuing clockwise) ensures no areas are missed.

5. Complete the Total Duration

• Upper teeth: ~1 minute

• Lower teeth: ~1 minute

Brushing should not end before completing a total of 2 minutes.

6. Don't Forget to Clean the Tongue

Bacteria accumulating on the tongue surface is a significant cause of halitosis.

• With a toothbrush or tongue cleaner

• From back to front

• Clean with gentle movements

7. After Brushing

• The mouth can be rinsed gently

• Avoid excessive rinsing with water to maintain cleaning effectiveness

• Floss or an interdental brush should be used at least once a day

For Those Using Electric Toothbrushes

If you're using an electric toothbrush:

• Place the brush on the tooth surface

• Allow the device to do its movement without applying pressure

• Move slowly from tooth to tooth

These brushes are quite effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis when used correctly.

When to Replace the Toothbrush?

• On average, every 3–4 months

• Earlier if bristles become worn

Worn-out brushes do not provide effective cleaning.

Conclusion

To maintain dental health, it is not enough to just brush your teeth; brushing must be done with the correct technique, for the correct duration, and at the correct frequency. Avoiding incorrect habits and applying the correct methods ensures long-term healthy teeth and strong gums.