5 Tooth Cleaning Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Dental Health

While small mistakes now and then aren’t always a bad thing, it’s important to get things right when it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene. Certain errors in technique can increase your risk of oral problems such as cavities and gum disease. But how do you know when you’re cleaning your smile correctly? Keep reading to learn five common teeth-cleaning mistakes your dentist in Midland says can be detrimental to your dental and overall health!

#1: You Don’t Change Your Toothbrush Often

Even if you scrub your pearly whites twice a day, you’ll need to use reliable products to ensure they remain clean and safe. Using a toothbrush that’s frayed means that the bristles won’t be strong enough to effectively remove debris, food particles, and plaque from your smile. Additionally, if you used a toothbrush while you were ill or had a sore throat, then any germs may remain between the bristles and get you sick again. To avoid these issues, it’s best to switch it out every 3 to 4 months or sooner.

#2: You Only Brush Once Daily

Brushing only once a day means you can still have plaque around your teeth and gum line. This can cause inflammation and lead to periodontal disease, infection, and even tooth loss. By simply brushing at least in the morning and before bed, you stand a greater chance of keeping dental health issues at bay.

#3: You Forget Your Gums

Although your teeth are important for flashing a confident smile, your gums are essential for keeping them in place. Without regularly cleaning the base of your teeth, you might risk bacteria buildup, which can cause gum disease and tooth loss. To avoid this, be sure to take a few moments to scrub your gums when brushing.

#4: You Brush Too Quickly or Too Hard

Sometimes our schedules can make us feel rushed, so some people may feel the need to brush their teeth quickly to leave on time. However, cleaning too fast often means your work won’t be thorough, as particles and bacteria can still be left behind. You might even brush too hard, which can gradually wear down your enamel and make your teeth more vulnerable to bacteria, decay, and infection. One of the best ways to clean is to take your time, which is about two minutes of scrubbing.

#5: You Avoid Flossing

Your toothbrush can’t reach every surface of your smile. That’s why it’s crucial to floss between them, as plaque most commonly gets stuck there. Be sure to be gentle and not to snap too hard, as this can damage your gums. If certain areas are more difficult to clean, then you might consider using a water flosser to help remove debris from hard-to-reach places.

By correcting these teeth-cleaning mistakes, you can ensure better health for your smile in the long run. Speak with your dentist if you have any issues, and they’ll be more than happy to help!

About the Author

Dr. Laura Philipps is a member of several groups like the Texas Dental Association and the American Equilibration Society. She also regularly seeks continuing education to refine her skills. She provides numerous high-quality treatments, including dental checkups and cleanings, to help you maintain your dental health. If you’d like to know the best practices for cleaning your teeth, visit her website or call 432-570-4433.