Even though you’re brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, you may not be doing it efficiently or effectively enough to prevent cavities and gum disease. To make sure you’re taking care of your pearly whites and maintaining your smile, it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion from your dentist. Read on to learn about four common teeth-cleaning mistakes dentists warn their patients against doing.
Brushing Once a Day
It’s true that brushing once a day is better than not brushing at all, but this strategy isn’t effective enough to prevent oral health problems from arising. Most plaque hardens into tartar within 48 hours of forming on the teeth, and when this happens it can only be removed with a professional cleaning.
That’s why it’s crucial to brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day. By doing this, you can keep harmful oral bacteria from colonizing your mouth and damaging your teeth and gums. Brushing twice a day will also ensure that whenever you do go in for your bi-annual checkups and cleanings with your dentist, they won’t last so long (because there will be less tartar for your dental hygienist to remove).
Going Overboard with Whitening Products
Most people desire having a whiter and brighter smile, but where this can become a problem is by overusing whitening products on your teeth. Over-the-counter products often aren’t approved by the ADA, and even if they are, many aren’t formulated for long-term use. Over time, they can erode your enamel, which is the protective layer of your teeth, making them more susceptible to sensitivity and cavity formation.
Putting Flossing on the Backburner
Flossing is a necessary step in your oral hygiene routine in order to maintain happy and healthy teeth. Throughout the day, food debris and bacteria will accumulate throughout your mouth and become lodged between your teeth. Brushing alone won’t remove this buildup. By flossing daily, you can keep harmful oral bacteria from colonizing your mouth and causing problems down the road.
Rarely Replacing Your Toothbrush
Did you know that you should be replacing your toothbrush once every three months? This is to prevent bacteria from accumulating on it and the frayed bristles from damaging your gums. By refreshing your toothbrush or electronic toothbrush head regularly, you can keep unwanted germs and bacteria from transferring to your mouth and causing oral health and other sickness.
With the right oral hygiene practices and routine in-place, not only will you be able to rest-assured that you won’t have to worry about lingering and worsening cavities and gum disease, but you can also save big by avoiding needing expensive dental treatments!
About the Author
Dr. J.D. Robison is dedicated to carrying on his father and grandfather’s legacy of providing honest, kind, and high-quality dental care to patients of all ages. He enjoys making each of his patient’s experiences personalized and positive, and he’s proud to be an in-network provider with Delta Dental. For questions or to schedule a checkup and cleaning, visit our website or call 734-453-6320.