Common Dental Hygiene Mistakes to Avoid

Common Dental Hygiene Mistakes to Avoid

Dental hygiene is an important part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy, but if you make any of the following oral hygiene mistakes, you could end up doing more harm than good. Are you making any of these missteps? Here are some of the dental hygiene issues we commonly address with our patients.  

You aren’t brushing properly. 

You know you should brush your teeth at least twice per day, but technique also counts. A common mistake people make is brushing their teeth too hard. Using too much pressure can wear away tooth enamel and lead to sensitivity and bleeding gums. Other common errors that include brushing right after a meal, which can also weaken your teeth, and using a toothbrush with hard bristles. 

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a head that fits your mouth comfortably to brush gently twice per day, at least one hour after eating or drinking. For even better results, switch to an electric toothbrush that will time how long you brush and includes a pressure sensor to alert you when you’re brushing too hard. No matter what type of toothbrush you use, switch out the brush head every three months to prevent harmful bacteria from accumulating in the bristles. 

You skip flossing too often.

You should floss at least one time per day.While it can be tempting to postpone flossing when you’re in a hurry, it is easy for that postponement to become a habit that can lead to oral health problems. Flossing cleans areas of your teeth that your toothbrush cannot reach, which stops bacteria and plaque from forming and causing tooth decay and gum disease. 

You substitute your home routine for dental care.

A conscientious home dental hygiene routine is essential, but it doesn’t take the place of regular dental check-ups. Your dentist can remove tartar from your teeth that you can’t clean at home and will perform an exam to spot any oral health problems in their early stages, when treatment is easier and more effective. 

Don’t let dental hygiene mistakes put your health at risk. Make an appointment for a dental check-up in Tucson by calling the office of John Carson, DDS. Schedule your visit by calling (520) 514-7203.