6 Common Brushing and Flossing Mistakes

6 COMMON BRUSHING AND FLOSSING MISTAKES

We brush our teeth everyday, but many of us were never actually shown the right way to do it! Small mistakes in your routine can unfortunately lead to sensitivity, gum problems, and long-term irreversible damage.

Here are six of the most common mistakes we see and how to fix them.

Brushing too hard

1. 1. Patients often tell us that it feels more satisfying to brush hard, or they feel the need to brush harder so it cleans better. Unfortunately the neck of the teeth are not strong enough to withstand high pressure and this can lead to gum recession and sensitivity
  2. Once the gums recede, they can’t grow back! In severe cases some people need gum grafting to fix their gums. In moderate cases, the teeth will need to be filled as the overbrushing can lead to a cavity on the side of the tooth known as toothbrush abrasion.
  3. Sensitivity can be managed with a sensitive toothpaste, however some teeth require fillings to protect the damaged areas.
  4. Pro tip: Brush in circular motions on a 45* angle towards the gums and massage the gums. Alternatively, use an electric toothbrush (round head) with a pressure sensor
  5. This video shows you the proper way to brush: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36gA2jMAnnw

Brushing with a toothbrush that is too hard for your teeth and gums

1. 1. A hard bristle toothbrush can cause more damage than you think.Combine that with hard brushing and you can end up stripping our enamel and gums away!
  2. We highly recommend only using a soft bristle toothbrush or an electric toothbrush (round head) with a pressure sensor to combat this issue

Not changing the toothbrush head enough

1. 1. Toothbrushes do lose their effectiveness over time! It’s best to change your toothbrush on average 3 monthly or if the bristles start to look too splayed.
  2. A sign you might be overbrushing is if you go through your toothbrushes much quicker than this time period
  3. If the bristles are too splayed it can’t effectively get into the crevices of the teeth – which means you aren’t brushing well and can increase your risk of plaque formation and decay
  4. A worn out toothbrush can also hurt your gums

Not flossing!

1. 1. Flossing is just as important as brushing, many people do not floss. It’s like showering without washing your legs! Brushing only gets 60-70% of the teeth and gums.
  2. The ideal amount of time to floss is once a day. If this is a big jump, try to get into a habit of at least 2-3 times a week and build up from here.
  3. Not flossing can lead to tooth decay, gum inflammation (gingivitis) and gum disease (which can lead to loose teeth)

Flossing with the incorrect technique

1. 1. Flossing but still getting bleeding gums? You might not be flossing the best way.
  2. The best way is to go further down than you think while hugging the tooth.
  3. Watch this video on the proper way to floss: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WZtYDpNhX8

Not using the right tool to clean in between the teeth

1. Some people have gaps in between their teeth that are too wide for floss to be effective
2. For these people, it is recommended to use an interdental brush or a waterflosser
3. If you do not have big gaps between your teeth but are finding it hard to floss, you may find using a floss with a longer handle more easier to use
4. Pro tip: ask your dentist on what tool is best for you or get measured up at your next dental check up for the right sized interdental brush for you

Good oral hygiene is not just about brushing and flossing, it is about doing it correctly.

Small adjustments to your technique and tools can make a big difference in protecting your teeth and gums long term.

Ask your dentist at MedCentral Dental if you are brushing the right way.

Dr Raymond AU

Principal Dentist

Speaks English and Vietnamese

Born and raised in Melbourne, Dr Raymond has spent several years working across both private and public practices in metropolitan Melbourne and rural Victoria. This diverse experience has strengthened his ability to connect with individuals and families from all walks of life, allowing him to deliver care that feels both personalised and accessible.

With a strong focus on family dentistry, Dr Raymond is experienced in both general and cosmetic dentistry, supporting patients at every stage of life. He is particularly proficient in wisdom teeth extractions, and has a special interest in clear aligner treatment and smile makeovers – including porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges.

Known for his calm and reassuring manner, Dr Raymond is especially attentive to patients who may feel anxious about dental visits. He creates a relaxed, supportive environment designed to ease concerns and build trust over time. His goal is to make every appointment a positive experience and believes that visiting the dentist should feel comfortable, not confronting.

Outside the practice, he enjoys travelling, playing tennis, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Dr Emily Pow

Currently on maternity leave

Dr Emily was born in Melbourne and was raised in the local Knox area. She even worked at the centre as a teenager. She previously worked in private practices across Melbourne, and has worked in the public sector at the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne. She also gained significant experience working as the Hospital Dental Officer at Monash Medical Centre where she treated medically compromised, special needs and cancer patients.

She enjoys most aspects of dentistry, including providing implants, crowns, cosmetic dentistry and working with children. She has a special interest in orthodontics (braces, clear aligners and early intervention). Dr Emily is currently completing a Post Graduate Diploma in Orthodontics to further her passion in this area. She loves helping her patients with clear aligner treatment so that they can smile confidently for life.

In her spare time, Dr Emily enjoys going out for good food, spending time with family and going on nature walks with her dog Chino.

Dr Lilian Phu

Dr Lilian Phu graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Biomedicine (Honours) and Doctor of Dental Surgery. Her passion for helping people achieve their dental and oral health goals is reflected by the quality, care and attention she gives to each patient she encounters. Additionally, her friendly and bubbly nature will be sure to bring a smile on anyone’s face.

Dr Lilian is also a preclinical supervisor for dental students at Melbourne University, sharing her knowledge with the future generation of dentists.

In order to deliver the best dental care to her patients, she regularly attends continuing education courses and is currently undertaking a two-year postgraduate course in orthodontics. Dr Lilian has a special interest in implants and clear aligner treatment, and can talk to you about how you can improve your smile.

Outside of dentistry, she enjoys digital drawing and spending time with her loved ones including a dog and three cats.

Dr Edward Wang

Speaks English

Education:

BSc, DDS Melb

Edward is a kind and caring dentist who is dedicated to providing his patients with high quality dental care while prioritizing patient comfort to ensure that his patients have a positive experience.

Edward believes in taking a more patient-centered approach to dental care, whether it be by providing information to patients about prevention of dental disease, or by providing and explaining all available treatment options so that patients can be fully informed about their oral healthcare.

Outside of work, you’ll find Edward playing volleyball or in the kitchen as he enjoys cooking dishes from many different cuisines from around the world.