Brushing your teeth is a vital part of maintaining good oral hygiene. However, even the most diligent brushers can make mistakes while performing this daily task.

Here are five common mistakes you might be making while brushing your teeth, and how to avoid them:.

Mistake #1: Not Brushing for Long Enough

Many people only brush their teeth for a minute or less, but this isn’t long enough to effectively remove all of the plaque, bacteria, and food particles from your teeth.

Dentists recommend brushing for at least two minutes each time, twice a day.

It can be tough to remember to keep brushing for the full two minutes, especially if you’re in a hurry or distracted by other things. To overcome this problem, try using a timer or watching a short video as you brush to keep you on track.

Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Toothbrush

Another mistake people make while brushing their teeth is using the wrong type of toothbrush. Toothbrushes come in different shapes, sizes, and bristle textures, and not all of them are suitable for every person.

If your toothbrush has hard or stiff bristles, you could be harming your teeth and gums by scrubbing too hard. Instead, use a soft-bristled toothbrush that can clean your teeth without causing damage.

Additionally, make sure that the head of your toothbrush is small enough to reach all areas of your mouth, including the back teeth and gums.

Mistake #3: Brushing Too Aggressively

While it’s important to brush your teeth thoroughly, you don’t need to scrub them too aggressively. Brushing too hard can damage your tooth enamel and gums, leading to sensitivity, gum recession, and other dental problems.

Instead, use gentle circular or back-and-forth motions to clean your teeth and gums, and be sure to use a light hand. You might also want to consider using an electric toothbrush, which can do the work for you and help you avoid brushing too hard.

Mistake #4: Neglecting Your Tongue and Gums

When most people brush their teeth, they focus solely on their teeth and ignore their tongue and gums. However, both your tongue and gums harbor bacteria that can contribute to bad breath, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

When you brush your teeth, make sure to spend some time cleaning your tongue and the inside of your cheeks. You can use your toothbrush or a tongue scraper to remove the bacteria and debris from these areas.

Additionally, be sure to gently brush along your gumline to remove any plaque or food particles that may have accumulated there.

Mistake #5: Not Replacing Your Toothbrush Regularly

Many people continue to use the same toothbrush for months, or even years, at a time. However, over time, the bristles of your toothbrush can become frayed and lose their effectiveness, making it harder to clean your teeth and gums properly.

Dental professionals recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become worn or splayed.

Additionally, if you’ve recently been sick, be sure to replace your toothbrush to avoid introducing any harmful bacteria back into your mouth.