The sports category has moved to a new website.

8 mistakes to avoid when brushing your teeth

And how to fix the mistakes.

Most times people get away with doing the bare minimum: brush their teeth every morning.

However, dental experts say that it's not enough. More is needed for the health care of your teeth.

Here are 7 mistakes you should avoid when taking care of your teeth.

ADVERTISEMENT

1. Keeping a toothbrush for too long

You should always switch your toothbrush after 200 uses. Or after every three months.

2. Brushing for too short a session

You should use a minimum of two minutes when brushing your teeth.

3. Rinsing your mouth with water after brushing your teeth

ADVERTISEMENT

After spitting out the toothpaste, you shouldn't immediately rinse out your mouth with water to allow the fluoride to settle in your teeth.

4. Storing your toothbrush in the bathroom

It should be kept in a separate place as water that splashed from the loo or shower falls on the bristles of your brush. Put a lid on your toothbrush or store in a lockable cabinet.

5. Using a toothbrush with hard bristles

Bristles that are too stiff hurt your gums. They can also erode the enamel from your teeth. Look for toothbrushes with soft bristles.

ADVERTISEMENT

6. Using up down motion to brush

The correct way to brush your teeth is in a circular motion. The toothbrush should make contact between your teeth and gumline.

7. Brushing your teeth too many times

Some people believe that you should brush your teeth after every meal but you should only brush your teeth at most twice a day.

You also need to wait at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth after a meal. This is to allow the pH levels in your mouth to go back to normal.

JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: news@pulselive.co.ke

ADVERTISEMENT