Every morning, every night, you have to brush your teeth and keep on top of your oral hygiene. No one likes to be told that they’re not brushing their teeth properly but sometimes, you have to be told so that you can make the right changes.

Incorrect brushing can cause you a lot of problems. It’s not just your teeth that will feel the effects; it’s your gums. Some people end up with tooth and gum loss due to incorrect brushing, and while you can get dental implants to replace the teeth it can help you to know the signs of not brushing your teeth properly. It's not just about brushing up and down and left and right for two minutes; you have to make sure that you are using mouthwash and are flossing the right way. Below, we’ve got some signs that you’re not brushing your teeth right - and we’re telling you gently so you don't have to feel badly!

Plaque has taken up residence on your teeth and in your gum line.

The biggest sign that you are brushing your teeth incorrectly is the yellow plaque staining your teeth. If you see a sticky yellow mess on your teeth, that’s plaque that needs cleaning. A thorough brushing gets rid of it but if you don't, tartare is the hardened result.

Your breath? People can smell it.

I’m sorry but if you're not brushing well enough people are going to smell it from you. You need to make sure that you keep on top of flossing after meals so that meat and seeds from your food don't creep into your gums and start to rot. It’s not pleasant, but proper oral hygiene will help.

Your gums are bleeding.

If properly brushing your teeth is causing your gums to bleed, then you’re going to need to see your dentist in case you are developing gingivitis. The best thing that you can do to keep on top of your teeth and gums is to buy the right toothbrushes, floss and mouthwashes. Ask your dentist to help you to do this right!

You don't wait.

If you’re brushing your teeth right after you eat and drink, that’s not a good thing. You should avoid brushing too fast after consuming acidic drinks and foods because it can remove the enamel on your teeth. This is not a good thing and it’s not a positive thing for your teeth. Always wait around half an hour after eating and drinking to go and brush your teeth - you need to if you want to keep on top of them staying clean.

There’s nothing wrong with knowing the signs you’re not brushing properly. You can do so much better when you have clean, healthy teeth. That way, any cosmetic changes you want to make are happening with healthy gums and teeth to support the changes and enhance your confidence.

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