Every Utahn knows brushing your teeth is important.  With the assistance of parents we learned how to brush our teeth when we were young and have been brushing our teeth everyday (hopefully) since.  While it may be an ingrained habit, we can get sloppy and careless.  Any Dentist or dental assistant can tell you getting sloppy and careless with our teeth can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other dental nightmares. 

            Dentists say it is common to see a dramatic increase in dental cavities during college years.  Going to the dentist and assisting him by properly brushing your teeth will lead to better overall health.  Despite this knowledge, all Utahns, especially college students, could use a little refresher course on how to properly brush your teeth.

            One common brushing mistake is not using the right toothbrush.  According to the American Dental Association, if you are straining to open wide enough to let the brush in, it is probably too big for you.  The brush needs to fit comfortably in your hand as well as your mouth so you're more likely to use it.

            Another common brushing mistake Utahns might not be aware of is not picking the right bristles.  Bristles that are too stiff can aggravate your gums.  The American Dental Association recommends a soft-bristled brush.  The bristles should be sturdy enough to remove plaque, but not hard enough to damage the teeth or gums. They will assist in cleaning while keeping your gums healthy.

            Not brushing your teeth often enough or long enough is also a common mistake Utahns make.  Gently brushing your teeth at least twice a day is recommended and brushing should last at least two minutes.  College students might make the mistake skipping a few teeth brushings because they feel they don't have time, but too much time between brushings leads to bacterial plaque buildup assisting the development of cavities and an increased risk of gum inflammation.  Dentists recommend dividing your mouth into quadrants and spending 30 seconds in each quadrant.  And for the busy college student they also recommend multi-tasking, you can brush your teeth while you cram for that weekly quiz.

            Not using the right brushing technique is another common mistake.  You should aim your bristles at the gum line at a 45 degree angle and use short strokes.  The strokes should be either up and down vertical strokes or circular strokes, not horizontal.

            Another thing that should be avoided is starting in the same place each time you brush your teeth.  Start in different places each time you brush so that all parts of your mouth get a good cleaning.  Starting in the same place means that the last place you brush probably gets a bit neglected as you get bored with brushing.