You know the drill: brush twice a day and floss once a day to help prevent plaque buildup. Even if you make a point of keeping up with your dental hygiene, you might still be making mistakes that can contribute to oral health issues. Keep your mouth healthy and clean by avoiding these common teeth cleaning mistakes that make dentists wince.
Common Teeth Cleaning Mistakes
Oral hygiene isn’t always as easy as brushing and flossing. There are several teeth cleaning mistakes that are more common than you might think, including:
- Too Many Whitening Products – Dentists advise against using too many whitening products since this can erode the tooth enamel and leave you at a higher risk for tooth decay.
- Ignoring the Gums – If you don’t gently brush your gums, you increase your risk of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
- Using the Wrong Toothbrush – If you don’t have a good brushing technique, an electric toothbrush can be more effective at removing plaque.
- Be gentle – Don’t brush too hard so you don’t damage your gums or tooth enamel.
- Using the Wrong Rinse – Mouthwash can reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Rinses that contain alcohol can dry out your mouth, so ask your dentist what kind you should use.
- Not Brushing Long Enough – On average, people only brush their teeth for 45 seconds, less than half the recommended time of two minutes.
- Infrequent Toothbrush Replacement – The ADA recommends switching out your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or when the bristles become broken and frayed. It’s also important to trash your toothbrush after you’re sick since germs lurking between the bristles may make you sick again.
- Only Visiting the Dentist for Emergencies – It’s important to see your dentist on a regular basis to make sure your mouth stays healthy.
How to Clean Your Teeth the Right Way
Now that we know what to avoid, what’s the right way to take care of your teeth? Use an electric toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste twice per day for two minutes and floss once per day to remove plaque and food particles that may have gotten stuck between your teeth. Don’t forget to brush your tongue for better breath and to help eliminate harmful bacteria. Practice good brushing techniques by holding your toothbrush at a slight angle and aiming the bristles at the area where your tooth meets your gums. Carefully brush with short, circular, back-and-forth motions, and always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing. Consider using a fluoride mouthwash to reach the spots your toothbrush has trouble accessing, and avoid using toothpicks or other objects that can harm your gums and let bacteria in.
Make sure to see the dentist every six months for cleanings and exams to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy and functioning properly. With a proper oral care routine, you can avoid costly dental treatments and keep your smile looking bright!
About the Practice
Dr. Anthony Giamberardino and the Giamberardino Dental Care team have been bringing high-quality, compassionate care to the residents of Medford since 1993. They go above and beyond to make visits comfortable, effective, and stress-free. Whether you need a checkup or to discuss tooth replacement options, they will do what they can to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. To learn more about how Giamberardino Dental Care can help keep your teeth and gums healthy, call their office at (339) 674-6725 or visit their website.