1. Horizontal Brushing:  Instead, position the brush head at a 45-degree angle to the tooth axis, with the bristles pointing towards the tooth root. 

2. Neglecting the Tongue:  It's important to brush the tongue or use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria. 

3. Using a Toothbrush with Hard Bristles: Choose a toothbrush with softer bristles and use the correct brushing technique.

4. Not Using Fluoride Toothpaste: Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay. The amount of fluoride in toothpaste is safe and does not cause poisoning.

5. Brushing for Too Short a Time: It is recommended to brush for at least two minutes to thoroughly clean the entire mouth. 

6. Insufficient Brushing Frequency: Brushing twice a day, particularly before bed, is crucial to remove food debris and decrease the risk of tooth decay.

7. Not Using Dental Floss: Dental floss is essential for cleaning between teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach. 

8. Neglecting Regular Dental Cleaning: It is recommended to have regular dental cleanings every six months to remove tartar.