Brushing too vigorously can eventually erode your gum tissue and tooth enamel, particularly if you're using a hard toothbrush. Look for a soft head and apply gentle pressure and circular motions when you clean—sawing back and forth is too harsh.
Learn how to to make a great teeth whitener at home:
Using an electric toothbrush? You shouldn't really be brushing at all. The device rotates the bristles for you, so all you have to do is slowly glide it along your teeth. Treating it like your normal brush adds unnecessary pressure that will increase your risk for gum and enamel damage. (Brushing your teeth more won't make them whiter. Try this antioxidant-infused whitening pen from the Women's Health Boutique instead.)
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And just FYI, you don't help your oral health by brushing longer, either. Never brush your teeth for more than two minutes, two or three times a day. And since frayed bristles can also injure your gums, always remember to replace your brush or brush head every three months.
This article originally appeared in the June 2017 issue of Women's Health. For more great advice, pick up a copy of the issue on newsstands now!
