You know that you should be brushing twice and flossing at least once a day. However, even if you are super diligent when it comes to your oral hygiene routine, that doesn’t mean that you aren’t making mistakes when you are cleaning your teeth. When you aren’t maintaining your oral health properly, you could end up with dental issues in the future. Continue reading to learn about some of the most common teeth-cleaning mistakes and how you can correct them.
Not Brushing Frequently Enough
Even though it is well known that everyone should be brushing twice a day, many people neglect to clean their teeth before going to bed. This may not seem like a big deal, but when you leave plaque along the gum line, this can cause inflammation or gingivitis. When gum disease becomes more advanced, you could be left with an infection that can cause loose teeth, tooth loss, and other health issues. Remember to brush your teeth frequently enough.
Ignoring Your Gums
Oral health isn’t just about your teeth. It includes your gums as well. When you brush your teeth, you should also gently brush your gums to lessen your chances of inflammation that leads to gum disease and tooth loss.
Using Too Many Whitening Products
There are many different types of toothpaste, strips, and mouthwashes out there that claim to give you a beautiful white smile. However, you should proceed with caution. These products can contain ingredients for a whiter smile. This way, you can brighten your teeth safely.
Not Replacing Your Toothbrush
Do you know how often you should be getting a new toothbrush? Many people don’t. The American Dental Association recommends that you get a new toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. This is because frayed bristles cannot clean your teeth as effectively and leave more plaque behind. Keep an eye on your bristles so you know when you should purchase a new brush.
Brushing Too Vigorously
Many people tend to brush too hard when using a manual toothbrush. This can cause harm by wearing away the protective enamel and damaging your gum tissue, leading to gum recession. Make sure that you are using proper technique and a soft-bristled toothbrush while you are brushing to avoid harm to your smile.
Not Flossing Often
If you only ever use floss when you feel something stuck between your teeth, this isn’t enough! If you don’t floss often enough, you are allowing plaque and bacteria to stay put. Ultimately, you’re setting yourself up for tooth decay or gum disease. Remember to floss every day and don’t snap too hard. This can contribute to gum recession and gum disease.
To keep your smile in the best possible shape, be sure that you are avoiding the common mistakes listed above. With excellent oral hygiene comes optimal dental health!
About the Practice
At D’Andrea and Pantera, DMD, PC, we have a team of four skilled dentists serving the Hamden community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need conveniently under one roof. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (203) 288-0951.
