1. Brushing too hard. It’s common to think that the longer and harder you brush, the better it is for your teeth, but this is not true. Brushing teeth too hard can cause your gums to recede and also damage your enamel. Use a soft bristled brush and don’t apply too much pressure to protect gums and teeth.

2. Using the wrong mouthwash. Not all mouthwash is the same. There are different choices including breath-freshening, antibacterial, fluoridated, and more. You may only need a breath-freshening mouthwash to neutralize odor. If you’re concerned about gum disease, then you might need to use an antibacterial formula to fight plaque and gingivitis. And if you’re cavity-prone, then it’s important to use a wash that contains fluoride to strengthen teeth enamel. Talk to your dentist about which one is right for you.

3. Using the wrong toothbrush — or the right one in the wrong way. We recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush. If you use an electric toothbrush, be careful not to apply much pressure, as the toothbrush will do most of the work.

4. Brushing too soon after you eat. Most dental experts agree that it’s better to wait at least 30 minutes after a meal before you brush your teeth. This is particularly important after you eat or drink something acidic, like orange juice. That’s because acidic foods, as well as sugars and starches, temporarily soften tooth enamel. So brushing right away can damage your enamel.

5. Visiting the dentist only after you’ve experienced pain. Don’t wait to see the dentist, and be sure to go for regular check-ups. Many dental problems occur without any obvious signs. With regular dental check-ups, your dentist can detect issues early to avoid bigger problems down the line. Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime, so regular check-ups are important to achieve this!