5 Brushing Mistakes You're Probably Making

You've been brushing your teeth for decades. You've got this down, right? Maybe not. Most people make the same mistakes daily—habits so ingrained they feel normal. Here are five common errors sabotaging your oral health and how to fix them.

Mistake 1: Brushing too hard. It feels productive. It's actually destructive. Aggressive brushing erodes enamel and damages gums, causing the sensitivity and recession you're trying to prevent. Gentle pressure with soft bristles removes plaque effectively without the collateral damage.

Mistake 2: Using the wrong bristles. Hard and medium bristles are still sold everywhere, but dental professionals consistently recommend soft. Stiffer bristles don't clean better—they just cause more wear on enamel and gum tissue. Always choose soft, and look for ultra-fine options for even gentler care.

Mistake 3: Rushing. Two minutes feels long when you're half-asleep, but it's the time needed for thorough cleaning. Most people brush for 45 seconds or less. Use a timer. It's a simple fix that dramatically improves results.

Mistake 4: Neglecting the gum line. Plaque accumulates where tooth meets gum—exactly where most people skip. This zone is where gingivitis starts and cavities often form. Angle your bristles toward the gum line, or use a brush designed to reach it automatically.

Mistake 5: Forgetting your tongue. Bacteria on your tongue cause bad breath and recontaminate your teeth after brushing. A few gentle strokes on your tongue—or using a brush that doubles as a tongue cleaner—makes a noticeable difference.

The Dandelion 360° Toothbrush addresses all five: ultra-soft bristles, gentle cleaning action, automatic gum line coverage, and built-in tongue cleaning capability. It's designed to make proper technique effortless.

Small changes, big improvements. Start today.