We brush our teeth every day, twice a day, if we’re following our dentist’s advice. But what if you’ve been doing it wrong this whole time?

Brushing might seem simple, but small mistakes can make a big difference in your oral health. Ineffective brushing can lead to plaque buildup, gum disease, tooth decay, and even bad breath, despite your best intentions.

At Schaumburg Dental Studio, we want to help you get the most out of your daily dental routine. Let’s take a look at the most common brushing mistakes people make—and how to fix them.

1. Brushing Too Hard

Scrubbing your teeth like you’re cleaning tile grout might feel like a thorough job—but it can actually do more harm than good. Brushing too hard wears down your enamel and irritates your gums, potentially causing recession.

Solution: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and apply gentle pressure. Think of brushing more like massaging your teeth rather than scrubbing them.

2. Using the Wrong Toothbrush

Not all toothbrushes are created equal. A brush that’s too stiff, too old, or poorly shaped for your mouth can make brushing less effective—or even harmful.

Solution: Use a soft-bristled brush with a head that comfortably fits your mouth. Replace it every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

3. Brushing for Too Little Time

Most people don’t brush nearly as long as they should. The average person spends about 45 seconds brushing—but the ADA recommends at least two full minutes.

Solution: Set a timer or use an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer to make sure you’re giving every surface the attention it needs.

4. Skipping the Gumline

Plaque loves to gather where your teeth meet your gums. If you only brush the flat surfaces of your teeth, you’re missing a critical area that’s prone to inflammation and decay.

Solution: Angle your brush at 45 degrees to the gumline and use gentle, circular motions to clean both your teeth and the edge of the gums.

5. Brushing Right After Eating

If you’ve just had something acidic—like citrus fruit, soda, or coffee—your enamel is temporarily softened. Brushing too soon can actually damage it.

Solution: Wait 30 minutes after eating or drinking acidic beverages before brushing. In the meantime, rinse with water or chew sugar-free gum to neutralize the acids.

6. Using Too Much Toothpaste

More toothpaste doesn’t equal a better clean. In fact, using too much can create excess foam, making you think you’re done brushing earlier than you should be.

Solution: Adults only need a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. For kids, a smear the size of a grain of rice is enough.

7. Ignoring Your Tongue

Your tongue can harbor bacteria just like your teeth and gums—and if you’re not cleaning it, you might be leaving behind a major source of bad breath.

Solution: Gently brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper every time you brush to remove buildup and freshen your breath.

8. Not Flossing or Brushing Between Teeth

Toothbrush bristles can’t reach the tight spaces between teeth. If you’re skipping floss or other interdental cleaners, you’re missing about 35% of your tooth surfaces.

Solution: Floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth. Water flossers and interdental brushes can also be great tools.

9. Brushing Only Once a Day

Brushing once a day is better than nothing—but bacteria are constantly working, and so should your oral hygiene.

Solution: Brush at least twice a day—once in the morning to freshen your breath and remove plaque from overnight, and once before bed to prevent bacteria from working while you sleep.

So, Are You Making Any of These Mistakes?

Most of us don’t intentionally brush incorrectly, but habits and shortcuts can sneak in over time. A few small adjustments to your technique can make a big difference in your oral health, preventing cavities, gum disease, and costly dental treatments down the road.

At Schaumburg Dental Studio, we’re committed to helping you build healthy habits that stick. During every checkup, we’re happy to review your brushing and flossing techniques and recommend tools or products that match your unique needs. No judgment—just support!

Partner With a Dental Team That Truly Cares

Whether it’s your first cleaning in a while or you’re just trying to fine-tune your brushing routine, Schaumburg Dental Studio is here for you. We combine advanced dental care with personalized education, helping you and your family achieve confident, cavity-free smiles.

Not sure if you're brushing correctly? Let's find out together.

Schedule your appointment with Schaumburg Dental Studio today and experience care that’s thorough, supportive, and always focused on your smile.