Brushing your teeth is one of the first things you do in the morning. Most likely, you spread your toothpaste on the toothbrush and start scrubbing. But, did you know if you don’t brush your teeth the right way, you could be doing more harm than good?

Maybe you think the harder you brush, the better it is for your teeth. This isn’t the case. Knowing how to brush your teeth can prevent tooth enamel and gum damage.

Do you know the best way to brush your teeth for removing plaque and bacteria that cause gum disease and dental decay?

The following definitive guide for brushing your teeth properly will help your teeth stay strong and your gums healthy.

Seven Steps to Brush Your Teeth Correctly

You should follow these brushing steps in the morning and at night before you go to bed. Spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth.

Use fluoride toothpaste to protect your enamel and prevent cavities. If you brush your teeth properly, you clear away harmful bacteria.

Sometimes, misaligned teeth can make it hard to reach between your teeth. If this happens to you, do a Google search for orthodontist near me. Getting your teeth corrected can keep your mouth and teeth healthy.

1. Place your toothbrush at the neck of your tooth where it meets your gum.
2. Use small, gentle circular brushing movements holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle. Hold your toothbrush angling up for your top teeth and angled down for your bottom teeth.
3. Brush the outer side of your top and bottom teeth paying special attention to your back molars. You can use the tip of your toothbrush for cleaning between your front teeth.
4. Follow the same procedure for the inside surface of your teeth.
5. Move to the top surface of each tooth brushing the grooves that can trap food particles.
6. Gently brush the roof of your mouth, gums, and tongue to remove bacteria.
7. Finish up by flossing in an up and down motion between each tooth to remove any particles your toothbrush missed.

Teeth Brushing Mistakes to Avoid

Almost everyone makes mistakes when brushing their teeth. Here are four mistakes you can avoid:

Rinsing after Brushing Teeth

When you rinse your mouth after brushing, you’re washing away all the benefits of your fluoride toothpaste. Instead of rinsing, spit out the excess toothpaste. This allows the fluoride left in your mouth to do its job.

Not Reaching to the Gums

It’s important to brush your gums completely. Many people don’t even touch their gums when they brush. If you don’t brush your gums, you’ll be more vulnerable to gum disease.

Using a Hard Toothbrush

If you use a toothbrush with hard bristles, you can damage your teeth and gums. It’s also a good idea to use round-ended bristles rather than angled bristles for less damage.

Don’t Replace the Toothbrush Often Enough

You should replace your toothbrush at the first sign of wear. Your toothbrush is less effective if the bristles are worn down. Also, replace your toothbrush after you have a cold or the flu so you aren’t infected again.

Start Brushing Your Teeth the Right Way

Now that you know the best way to brush your teeth, you won’t have to worry about plaque buildup, gum disease or bacteria left in your mouth. Following these steps will keep your teeth healthy and strong.

Read more informative articles about living a happy and healthy lifestyle.