05 Jan How You Brush Your Teeth Could Harm Your Oral Health
Brushing your teeth might seem simple but there are some bad habits that could actually do more harm than good. Improper and inadequate brushing could lead to the need for professional intervention from your dentist. While our teeth are strong, they are not impervious to damage. Here are four brushing habits that could harm your oral health.
Brushing Too Vigorously
If you bear down too hard while brushing, you could weaken your teeth. Vigorous brushing causes permanent damage to tooth enamel, which could lead to an increased risk for tooth decay and tooth sensitivity.
When brushing, make a conscientious effort to avoid bearing down too hard. Instead, use soft and gentle circular motions.
Inadequate Brushing
Are you brushing your teeth thoroughly? If you brush for anything less than two minutes, you’re likely missing important areas. When you brush, it’s important not to let your mind wander. Instead, practice mindfulness and take care to brush all surfaces of each tooth. Be sure to brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth to control oral bacteria and improve your breath.
Using an Old, Frayed Toothbrush
An old, frayed toothbrush could be riddled with bacteria and irritate your gums. It is important to replace your toothbrush (or an electric toothbrush’s brush heads) every three months. If you need help remembering when to replace your brush, consider marking it on a calendar or adopting a policy of swapping out an old toothbrush at the change of each season.
Using Whitening Toothpaste
Everyone wants a white smile but using a whitening toothpaste could come at a cost. Many whitening toothpastes have abrasive ingredients in their formulas. Although abrasives can help scrub away surface stains, prolonged used could strip your tooth enamel – leaving your teeth vulnerable to decay and breaking.
If you need help with selecting oral hygiene products, be sure to bring this up with our dentist at your next appointment. Our team is happy to recommend the best toothbrushes, toothpastes, and floss to help you protect your oral health.
Call Aesthetic Dental Partners today to reserve a checkup or cleaning.