Our Surrey dentists want you to achieve a healthy smile. If you're ready to take your oral hygiene to the next level, here are 3 mistakes to avoid when brushing your teeth. 

Stop Using the Wrong Toothbrush

If you want to do great job cleaning your teeth you need to begin with the right tools. Whether you prefer a manual or electric toothbrush, be sure that your toothbrush is the right size for you. Your toothbrush should easily reach all the areas of your mouth, and be comfortable to use.

Our Surrey dentists recommend choosing a toothbrush with a smaller brush head. Smaller brushes allow for better access to those hard to reach areas at the very back or your mouth or behind your front teeth. 

For most people, a soft bristled toothbrush is ideal, hard bristles could damage your gums. Speak to your dentist to find out which type of bristles are best for your teeth. If you suffer from sensitive teeth or show signs of enamel erosion, a toothbrush with extra-soft bristles may be a better option for you.

When you are shopping for a new toothbrush take some extra time to find a one that fits comfortably in your hand. You're more likely to brush your teeth for the full two minutes if your toothbrush is comfortable to use. Handles that are too long or bulky might prevent you from brushing as thoroughly as you should.

Stop Brushing Too Hard

If you brush your teeth well, twice a day, plaque should be relatively soft and easy to remove. Brushing harder doesn't equal brushing better! Think of brushing your teeth as massaging your gums. Scrubbing too hard could do more harm than good. Be kind to your smile...brush your teeth and gums gently. 

Stop Rushing Through Brushing

Did you know that you should be brushing your teeth for a full two minutes twice a day - every day! If you have never timed yourself while brushing, now is the perfect time to start, you may be surprised at just how long two minutes is.

Need some encouragement to help keep you brushing for the full two minutes? Give an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer a try. Your toothbrush timer will let you know when the two minutes has passed. Of course you could just use your watch or phone to time yourself until brushing for two minutes has become a regular habit.

Another trick to keep you brushing for longer is to think of your mouth in four quarters. Take 30 seconds to focus on each individual quadrant of your mouth, cleaning all areas of that section thoroughly, before moving on to the next quadrant. Once the two minutes is up, floss and you're done!