Hey Lykkers! Let’s have some real talk—brushing our teeth is something we’ve all done thousands of times. It’s so routine, we barely think about it.

But what if I told you that even the most faithful brushers out there are probably doing at least one thing wrong? Yep, tooth brushing myths are sneakier than spinach in your teeth. So today, we’re going to bust some of those myths wide open and help you brush smarter—not harder.

1. Myth: The Harder You Brush, the Cleaner Your Teeth

Truth: This one’s a classic mistake. Scrubbing too hard doesn’t give you sparkly-clean teeth—it actually wears down enamel and irritates your gums. Over time, it can cause sensitivity and even gum recession. The trick is to be gentle. Think of brushing like polishing a pearl, not scrubbing a pot.

2. Myth: You Need a Ton of Toothpaste

Truth: More foam doesn’t mean more clean. All you need is a pea-sized amount (even less for kids). Too much toothpaste can actually create too much foam, making you feel like you're done brushing way before your teeth are really clean.

3. Myth: Brushing Once a Day Is Fine

Truth: Sorry, but once just doesn’t cut it. Dentists recommend brushing at least twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed. Nighttime brushing is especially important since saliva production slows down while you sleep, giving bacteria more time to party.

4. Myth: Mouthwash Can Replace Brushing

Truth: Mouthwash is great as a backup singer, but it’s not the lead performer. It can freshen your breath, but it doesn’t remove plaque or food bits. Think of it as an add-on, not a replacement.

5. Myth: Electric Toothbrushes Are Lazy Tools

Truth: On the contrary! Electric toothbrushes are amazing for getting a consistent clean, especially if you tend to rush or miss spots. Many even have timers or pressure sensors to guide your brushing habits. Lazy? More like genius.

6. Myth: Bleeding Gums? Stop Brushing!

Truth: Actually, bleeding gums are usually a sign of inflammation from plaque buildup. Stopping brushing makes it worse. Keep brushing gently and consistently, and you’ll likely see improvement. If not, time to visit your dentist.

A Few Smart Brushing Habits You’ll Love

- Brush for two full minutes. Not 30 seconds. Not one verse of your favorite song—two solid minutes.

- Replace your brush head every 3 months. Bristles wear down and become less effective.

- Use circular motions and a 45-degree angle. This helps get along the gum line where bacteria love to hide.

- Wait to brush after acidic foods. Give your enamel 30 minutes to settle after citrus or soda.

Alright Lykkers, now that we’ve set the record straight, your next brushing session is going to be a game-changer. Keep smiling bright and let me know if you want a myth-busting guide to flossing next!