“Devastating” Mistakes You Make When Brushing Your Teeth

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You might think that brushing your teeth for two minutes in the morning and evening is all it takes to keep your teeth pearly white and clean, but it’s more complicated than that.

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According to dentists, certain brushing habits can have a negative impact on your dental health, including:

Rinsing your mouth at the wrong time

Many people rinse their mouths right after brushing their teeth, but this habit “removes the concentrated fluoride” left behind by toothpaste, “diluting and reducing its full effect.”
Dentists advise using mouthwash at a later time, such as after eating, to freshen your breath and neutralize acidic foods.

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Replacing your toothbrush

This is a task most of us neglect entirely, but if you have a manual or electric toothbrush, you should replace it or its head every two to three months.

Experts point out that failing to do so means the bristles will wear out, making them less effective at cleaning and more prone to contamination, which could potentially harm your teeth and gums.

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Using dental floss

Flossing is a great way to remove plaque that accumulates between the teeth and beneath the gums (areas your toothbrush can’t reach).

Flossing is linked to a reduced risk of cavities, which can lead to tooth loss if untreated.
Dentists recommend flossing at least once a day, preferably at night before brushing your teeth, not after.

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Brushing your teeth in the shower

If this convenient habit is part of your routine, it’s time to stop.

Experts say that the moisture in the bathroom can create an ideal environment for bacterial growth, meaning your otherwise clean toothbrush becomes exposed to germs, which then risk entering your mouth. Additionally, the heat from the shower can also damage the bristles of your toothbrush.