Menu

A Healthy Smile Is Important for a Great Overall Appearance


Teeth Cleaning Mistakes You Should Avoid

Everyone dreams of having a beautiful set of pearly white teeth. However, having white teeth requires commitment and consistency. Many cosmetic procedures can be avoided by exercising proper oral hygiene. Here are some common teeth cleaning mistakes you must avoid for strong and healthy teeth. 

Failing to Replace Your Toothbrush

According to the American Dental Association, you should change your toothbrush every three to four months. Old toothbrushes have broken or frayed bristles that don't clean your mouth effectively. You should also replace your toothbrush if you have recently suffered an illness. This is because the germs of your infection tend to hide between the toothbrush bristles and could reinfect you.

When picking a replacement toothbrush, choose one with soft bristles that is able to reach all the corners of your mouth. Alternatively, buy an electric toothbrush because it is more effective at cleaning than a manual brush.

Brushing Too Quickly

Many people only brush for a few seconds, provided they touch the surface of all their teeth. Dental experts advise people to brush their teeth for two minutes twice every day. Brushing for at least two minutes gives the fluoride in your toothpaste enough time for absorption into your enamel. To ensure you dedicate enough time to brushing your teeth, use a timer every time you brush. 

Additionally, you shouldn't rinse your mouth with water after brushing. This will rinse the fluoride and will not give it time to absorb in your enamel. Instead, you can rinse your teeth with a fluoride mouthwash.

Brushing Too Hard

You may think the harder you brush your teeth, the cleaner they will be. However, brushing too hard damages your enamel and makes your teeth susceptible to sensitivity and cavities. Moreover, exerting too much pressure on your enamel results in receding gums. This exposes the roots of your teeth, which increases your chances of tooth decay. 

To avoid brushing too hard, use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Your brushing technique will also make a difference. For example, try holding your toothbrush with your non-dominant hand or with only your fingers. This will ensure you brush with less pressure. Also, ensure your brushing technique covers your tongue, gum line, and the roof of your mouth.

Failing to Floss

Many people think brushing their teeth twice daily is enough to protect them from germs. The truth is, if you don't floss daily, you set the stage for gum disease. Your toothbrush cannot reach all the areas of your mouth. Flossing helps remove food debris, bacteria, and plaque trapped between the teeth and under the gums.

Contact a local dentist, such as Dr. Jon Douglas Lesan, DDS, RpH, PA, to learn more. 

About Me

A Healthy Smile Is Important for a Great Overall Appearance

I have always loved fashion and beauty and have always taken great pride in my appearance. As a young adult, I never missed a hair coloring appointment or hesitated to run out to the mall to grab the latest trendy clothing item, but unfortunately, I didn't care for my teeth as well as I should. While I never used to be one to "shy away" from photos, I started fearing the camera after I saw how bad my teeth looked in one. That photo was a wake-up call, and I then dedicated myself to taking better care of my teeth at home, visiting the dentist regularly, and getting the dental work I needed. I learned a lot during this time, so I decided to start a blog to help others make smart dental decisions. Come back and check out my posts!

Categories

Latest Posts

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontists
6 September 2023

Orthodontists play a crucial role in helping you a

There Are Important Differences Between Your Dentist And An Oral Surgeon
26 July 2023

When you need extensive work done to your mouth, y

Top Reasons You Should Choose Dental Implants
20 June 2023

If you have lost any of your teeth, your dentist h

4 Tips To Make Sure Bruxism Doesn'T Interfere With Your Dental Implant
9 May 2023

If you suffer from bruxism, or teeth grinding, you

Dental Implants Are Often Considered The Best Tooth Replacement Option
2 April 2023

Dental implants are one of the tooth replacement o