VWB Blog Are you taking good care of your teeth? Are you wondering whether you’re doing your dental hygiene right?
Your teeth are important if you want to have a healthy body that’s free of disease. That’s because the body produces many kinds of waste that are disposed of through the mouth. The mouth is also the first point of contact for many kinds of illnesses.
If you want to prevent dental problems from happening, you want to pay good attention to your tooth cleaning routine. You want to know the common dental hygiene mistakes that people make so that you can avoid falling into the trap.
Keep reading to know what to do to prevent common dental mistakes.
1. Not Vising an Orthodontist
Good oral hygiene is important for overall health, and not visiting an orthodontist can be a common mistake. It is essential to understand the impact orthodontic care can have on your oral health.
Not only does orthodontic treatment can help straighten and align teeth, but it can also correct a range of dental problems, such as overcrowding, improper bite, and spacing.
You can visit this local orthodontist to help you detect early signs of orthodontic issues, such as malocclusions, misaligned teeth, and even oral cancer.
Common preventive measures include regular oral exams, digital x-rays, and relevant treatment plans. To achieve and maintain healthy teeth and gums, set a dental cleaning appointment now.
It’s important to visit an orthodontist, who can diagnose and prevent common dental problems.
2. Brushing Only Once per Day
Without regular brushing, the plaque and bacteria will stay, harden, and create an environment in which bacteria are more apt to form and thrive.
People should brush their teeth at least twice a day, each time with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Also, doing this leaves large amounts of plaque and bacteria behind, which can lead to the following:
Cavities
They are small holes in the teeth caused by a bacterial infection. If left untreated, cavities can become more severe and cause pain and discomfort.
Tooth Decay
This is because plaque and bacteria can easily build up on teeth throughout the day. This can also increase your risk of developing gingivitis and other gum diseases.
Tooth decay can lead to tooth pain, holes in the teeth, loose teeth, and significant dental damage that can be expensive to repair. It is important to brush twice a day to prevent plaque, bacteria, and tooth decay.
Gum Disease
An infection of the tissue surrounding the teeth and gums. Bacteria can cause irritation and infection of the gums. If these bacteria reach below the gum line, a condition known as periodontal disease may develop.
This form of gum disease causes deep pockets between the teeth and gums. Causing damage to the bone that supports the teeth.
Bad Breath
Bacteria emitting bad odors will develop in between teeth, on the tongue, and underneath the gums. A dry mouth increases your chance of developing bad breath because saliva is a natural deodorizing agent. Plaque and tartar can cause bad breath.
3. Brushing Too Hard
This can lead to excessive damage to the gums and teeth due to the hard bristles of toothbrushes rubbing the enamel too roughly. It also can cause the gums to recede and leave them more exposed.
Brushing soft enough to remove plaque and reduce the odds of cavities forming is the best balance you can reach. Brushing too hard can also cause bleeding gums, long-term gum, and bone loss.
In order to maintain proper oral hygiene and avoid damage, always brush firmly but gently with your brush at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line.
4. Not Changing Toothbrushes Frequently
Toothbrushes should be changed every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed. A worn toothbrush does not properly clean teeth. Bacteria can build up quickly on the bristles and can be transferred to the mouth.
Additionally, it can contain harmful bacteria, such as Streptococcus and Salmonella. When these bacteria are combined with food particles, they can create an unhealthy environment in the mouth.
Be sure to always change toothbrushes at least every three months and pay close attention to the condition of the bristles. Doing so will help keep your mouth healthy and reduce the risk of oral health issues.
5. Wrong Toothbrush Storage
Storing a toothbrush in an enclosed, damp, or dark area can increase the chances of collecting unwanted bacteria. Or in the same place as other supplies, such as makeup or a razor, can also contribute to the growth of bacteria.
The most effective way to store a toothbrush is in an open and clean space. Avoid storing any tooth cleaning products, such as toothpaste, in the same area as the toothbrush. Following these simple steps can help ensure good oral hygiene habits.
6. Brushing Immediately After Eating
By doing this, the bacteria and acid mix together, which can cause tooth erosion and decay. Saliva helps to neutralize the pH levels of your mouth.
Therefore, it is important to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth to allow your saliva to do its job. When brushing after eating, be sure not to brush too hard or too vigorously, as this can damage your teeth.
Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. This will also help remove food debris from your teeth and keep your gums healthy.
7. Not Enough Brushing Time
People often brush too quickly or forget to brush for the recommended time. Without brushing for two minutes, it is nearly impossible to remove all the plaque from your teeth and keep them healthy.
Furthermore, if plaque isn’t removed frequently, it will harden and become tartar, which can release toxins and cause gum disease. These tooth brushing techniques can help avoid these common dental hygiene mistakes.
Beware of These Common Dental Hygiene Mistakes
Overall, these common dental hygiene mistakes, such as not brushing/flossing every day, skipping regular check-ups, or relying too much on mouthwash, can cause serious oral health issues.
Avoid these mistakes by brushing and flossing at least twice a day, visiting your dentist regularly, and using mouthwash as an addition to brushing, not a replacement. Take the first step today to improve your oral health!
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