Five Common Myths About Toothbrushes

Dental professionals are always spreading the word about the best ways in which you can take proper care of your teeth, and when doing so, toothbrushes are bound to come up at some point. However, internet theories have left many wondering if some facts about the toothbrush are real or if they are nonsense waiting to be debunked.

At APEX Dental Care, we are ready to discuss some common misconceptions you may have about toothbrushes and help you optimize your dental hygiene in Issaquah.

1. Brushing Hard Will Leave My Teeth Cleaner  

Teeth may look like rock-solid structures that are impossible to destroy, but this is far from true: the surface of each tooth is covered in enamel, which protects it from acidic or harmful substances entering your mouth every day.  

By putting too much pressure when brushing, you remove microscopic layers of enamel little by little, exposing your teeth to bacteria and causing gum recession and even tooth decay.  

2. There is No Such Thing as Brushing Too Often  

It may seem hard to believe, but "less is more" is true when it comes to brushing your teeth. Cleaning your teeth more than twice or three times a day can result in gum injuries and the removal of substances that shield your teeth from bacteria, like enamel and dentin.

Over-brushing can also give you teeth sensitivity and force you to change your toothpaste and toothbrush.

3. Brushing Right After Each Meal Will Remove Bacteria Better

If you run to the bathroom to brush your teeth after eating something, it may be because you think leaving food in your mouth can only damage your teeth. However, as soon as you finish having something tasty, saliva in your mouth is making sure to wash away residue that can potentially give your mouth a hard time, like acid and bacteria.  

Brushing straight away will stop that process and expose your teeth to more dangers. Always wait at least 60 minutes after having breakfast, lunch, and dinner to let saliva do its job.

4. The More Toothpaste on My Toothbrush, the Better

Putting too much toothpaste in your brush can give your mouth a minty taste for longer, but it will do nothing for the health of your teeth. For one, too much fluoride can cause tooth discoloration when used excessively, a condition that is also known as dental fluorosis.  

A pea-sized amount is more than enough to keep your pearly whites shiny and clean for a long time.

5. Mouthwash can Replace a Toothbrush

Mouthwash does not possess the magical ability to carry your whole dental routine on its shoulders.  

Toothbrushes function as brooms that reach every corner of your mouth to rid it of damaging bacteria. Then mouthwash can give the finishing touches to a job well done by washing the remaining substances away. If you take toothbrushes out of the equation, plaque and tartar can accumulate in the nooks and crannies of your teeth, giving you several oral health problems.  

Having both steps as part of your routine will be a game-changer when avoiding a yellow smile.  

Looking for an Affordable Way to Improve Your Dental Hygiene in Issaquah?

Getting a dental professional to look at your teeth regularly is the icing on the cake of a healthy, white smile. Our team of dentists at APEX Dental Care is more than qualified to check your teeth and get them in tip-top shape.

Book an appointment now and get the smile you deserve.