5 Brushing Habits you Should Avoid | Ismile

Of course you’re brushing your teeth at least twice daily: upon rising and before bed. Hopefully, you’re thoroughly rinsing your mouth after lunch and snacks during the day when brushing isn’t possible. With all that commitment, how is it possible that you might be doing it wrong?  Your Lower Manhattan dentists have compiled 5 bad brushing habits that may be giving you a C- in brushing!

1.  So Many Teeth, So Little Time 

Dental experts say that anything short of 2 full minutes of brushing will leave behind bacteria that can lead to cavities and bad breath. Set a timer to make sure you give your teeth the attention they deserve.

2. Commit to Equal Rights (and Lefts) 

Studies show that right-handed people clean the right side of the mouth much better than they clean the left side. The same is true–vice versa–for the lefties among us. Be sure to give equal time to both sides of your mouth and pay attention to the gums to avoid tartar build-up!

3.  Going up? 

Sawing the brush back and forth–left to right–can damage enamel. Use an up-and-down motion when brushing.

4.  Don’t be a Bully! 

Pressing too hard on the brush can actually damage your gums and teeth. It’s more important to apply gentle but thorough brushing than to be heavy handed.

5.  Cool the White 

Yes, we know you want white teeth but whitening toothpastes that contain abrasives can damage your dental enamel. If you can’t say good-bye to whitening toothpaste at least give your pearly whites a break by using regular toothpaste at night and whitening in the morning, or vice versa.

We hope these tips will give you an even more dazzling smile!