Having good oral hygiene is non-negotiable, either you have it or you’re in trouble. Good oral hygiene helps prevent cavities and gum disease, and it can also reduce the risk of developing more serious conditions like heart disease.
That’s why it’s so important to question whether your efforts to maintain good oral hygiene are misguided, and might actually be causing you dental problems.
These are 5 common oral hygiene mistakes you might be making and should avoid according to dentists.
1. Brushing with too much pressure
“The harder you brush, the cleaner your teeth will be” Said no one ever!
Brushing your teeth too aggressively can lead to enamel damage, and gum recession exposing the roots of your teeth, which can cause tooth sensitivity, pain, or infection.
To prevent this, you should brush gently, in a circular motion, and make sure you are using a soft-headed toothbrush.
2. Using the same Toothbrush for over 4 months
Not replacing your toothbrush at the right time is one of the biggest risks for your dental health, worn bristles cannot effectively clean teeth and gums.
That’s why the American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush within four months.
If the last time you changed your toothbrush was more than three or four months ago, it’s time to get a new one!
The Regular Fresh Toothbrush effectively removes bacteria from your teeth, tongue, and gums, helping you maintain a healthy breath and good oral hygiene.
3. Brushing only once a day
If you only brush once a day in the morning, it means that bacteria from all the food you have eaten throughout the day is building up inside your mouth.
This bacteria can transform into an acid secretion that causes several dental problems, therefore, it is recommended to brush your teeth at least three times a day, or after every meal (but not right after eating).
4. Brushing your teeth right after you eat
You should wait at least 30 minutes after you eat to brush your teeth, here’s why:
When you brush your teeth right after you eat there’s a risk that acids created by food are pushed deep into your teeth, and end up harming your enamel.
Instead, if you wait a little bit before brushing, saliva can naturally wash away food particles containing any harmful acid.
If you’re in a rush and are unable to wait 30 minutes to brush your teeth, it’s better to just rinse your mouth with water.
Using mouthwash instead of flossing
A mouthwash is a good way to complement your oral hygiene routine, since it helps disinfect the oral cavity, but it cannot remove oral debris. That’s why it should never replace flossing.
Flossing not only helps take care of your gums, but it is the only way to clean the hard-to-reach spots around and in between your teeth
Have you been making any of these mistakes?
If you have, don’t worry, it’s never too late to start implementing healthier oral hygiene habits. Your first step can be replacing your old toothbrush!