Brushing and flossing your teeth seems simple enough, right? However, many people unknowingly make mistakes that can lead to plaque buildup, gum disease, and even cavities. Good oral hygiene is about more than just running a toothbrush over your teeth—it requires proper technique, the right tools, and good habits.

If you’re looking for expert teeth cleaning in Newmarket ON, you’ll want to make sure you’re not making these common mistakes. Let’s break down some of the biggest teeth-cleaning blunders and how you can fix them.

1. Brushing Too Hard (or Too Soft)

Scrubbing your teeth like you’re cleaning a dirty dish might seem effective, but it can actually do more harm than good. Brushing too hard can wear down enamel and irritate your gums, leading to sensitivity and recession. On the other hand, brushing too softly might not remove plaque effectively.

How to Fix It:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and apply gentle pressure in circular motions.
• Let the brush do the work—there’s no need to press hard.
• If your toothbrush bristles fray quickly, that’s a sign you’re brushing too aggressively.

2. Not Brushing Long Enough

Most people only brush for about 30 to 45 seconds, which isn’t nearly enough time to properly clean all surfaces of the teeth. The recommended time is two minutes, twice a day.

How to Fix It:

• Set a timer or play a short song while you brush.
• Use an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer to make sure you reach two minutes.
• Focus on all areas—don’t rush through it.

3. Skipping the Gum Line

Many people focus only on the surface of their teeth and forget the gum line, where plaque and bacteria love to hide. This can lead to gingivitis and gum disease over time.

How to Fix It:

• Angle your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards your gums while brushing.
• Use short, gentle strokes along the gum line.
• Don’t forget the back of your teeth, as plaque builds up there too.

4. Neglecting Flossing (Or Doing It Wrong)

Flossing is one of the most overlooked parts of oral hygiene. Some people skip it entirely, while others don’t floss correctly, only snapping the floss between their teeth instead of thoroughly cleaning.

How to Fix It:

• Floss once a day, making sure to gently slide it up and down against each tooth.
• Curve the floss around the base of each tooth to remove plaque under the gumline.
• If flossing is difficult, try floss picks or a water flosser.

5. Using the Wrong Toothpaste

Not all toothpaste is created equal. Some are too abrasive, while others may not have the right ingredients to properly fight cavities and gum disease.

How to Fix It:

• Look for fluoride toothpaste, as it helps strengthen enamel and prevent decay.
• If you have sensitive teeth, opt for a low-abrasive formula.
• Avoid charcoal toothpaste, as it can be too harsh and wear down enamel.

6. Ignoring Your Tongue

Your tongue harbours bacteria that contribute to bad breath and plaque buildup. If you’re not cleaning it, you’re leaving behind a major source of bacteria.

How to Fix It:

• Use a tongue scraper or the back of your toothbrush to clean your tongue.
• Scrape from the back to the front a few times to remove bacteria.

7. Using an Old or Worn-Out Toothbrush

If your toothbrush bristles are frayed and bent, it’s not doing an effective job. A worn-out brush won’t remove plaque properly, leaving your teeth vulnerable to decay.

How to Fix It:

• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles look worn.
• If you’ve been sick, change your toothbrush to avoid bacteria buildup.

8. Relying Only on At-Home Cleaning

Even if you have the perfect brushing and flossing routine, plaque and tartar can still build up in hard-to-reach places. That’s why professional cleanings are essential.

If you’re looking for teeth cleaning in Newmarket, ON, regular visits to a dental hygienist can help remove plaque, prevent gum disease, and keep your teeth in top shape.

How to Fix It:

• Visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning.
• If you have gum disease or buildup, you may need more frequent cleanings.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your teeth isn’t just about brushing twice a day—it’s about doing it correctly. Small mistakes in your routine can add up over time, leading to cavities, gum disease, and other issues. By improving your brushing technique, using the right tools, and scheduling regular teeth cleaning in Newmarket, ON, you can maintain a healthy, bright smile for years to come.

Need a check-up? Book a professional cleaning today and give your teeth the care they deserve!