Dentists recommend a daily oral hygiene regimen that includes brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash. When done properly, this sort of routine can eliminate plaque and food debris, freshen your breath, prevent tooth decay and gum disease, and not inflict oral injuries. Unfortunately, many people habitually make harmful mistakes when brushing or flossing. Here are a few dental hygiene mistakes that can make dentists very sad.
Error #1: Brushing Teeth Only Once Daily
Dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day while waiting at least thirty minutes after eating, once after breakfast and once before bed. This allows you to start the day with a fresh smile and to go to sleep with low levels of harmful oral bacteria until you eat breakfast in the morning. It’s even better if you brush after lunch as well.
Unfortunately, many people brush their teeth only once a day. This is insufficient for managing plaque levels and can lead to inflammation along the gumline, also known as gingivitis. It also leaves food debris sitting in your mouth around the clock, which can lead to tooth decay and bad breath.
Error #2: Neglecting to Brush the Gums
Many people figure that a toothbrush should only be used for brushing teeth, but the gums need some care as well. Gently brushing your gums eliminates plaque and keeps them stimulated so they can stay healthy and fight off infections. However, brushing too hard can damage your gums over time, so always take care to be gentle.
Error #3: Misuse of Whitening Products
There are many teeth whitening products available at grocery stores and pharmacies such as toothpaste, strips, and rinses. However, dentists recommend that people exercise caution in choosing and using these products. Some whitening pastes can damage your enamel because they are too abrasive. Many store-bought whitening kits can cause uneven whitening due to poorly fitting dental trays or injuries due to soft tissues being exposed to the whitening agent. Consult with your dentist about which whitening products are right for you.
It’s important to take care of your teeth, but it’s crucial to take care of your teeth in the right way. By brushing and flossing properly, you can help keep your teeth healthy for a lifetime.
About the Author
St. Albans Dental provides patients with the best dental care available in St. Albans City, VT. Led by Drs. Tyler Aten and Kelsey Cone, the staff sees to each patient’s comfort and effective oral health treatments. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. For more information on proper oral hygiene, contact the office online or dial (802) 524-4844.