A proper oral hygiene routine seems pretty straight forward. You brush twice a day, floss at least once a day, and your teeth thank you for it. It’s as easy as that, right? Not necessarily. At my dental office in Modesto, we want to provide you with a little insight to some of the top oral hygiene mistakes.
Brushing Too Hard
Brushing your teeth doesn’t have to be vigorous, and it’s actually better for you if it’s not. A habit of intense brushing may cause gum irritation and could even result in receding gums. It can also damage enamel. Scrubbing too hard tends to wear away the protective layer of enamel and makes your teeth more susceptible to decay. Instead of firm pressure, try brushing in gentle circles with the bristles aimed at a 45 degree angle.
Forgetting the Tongue
Our tongues collect and hold a lot of bacteria in all the little bumps and grooves. If left alone, the bacteria may transfer onto teeth and lead to decay. To avoid this, give your tongue a gentle rub with your toothbrush each and every time your brush.
Not Rinsing
We would love it if our patients brushed and flossed after breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but sometimes it’s just not possible. If you’re sans toothbrush or in a place where you can’t brush, there is another thing you can try to remove some of the bacteria, food particles, and neutralize acid. A simple swish and spit with some water can work wonders in keeping your mouth healthy between brushings.
Brushing Too Soon
Heading to the sink armed with your toothbrush and toothpaste immediately following a meal may seem like a great idea, but in reality may cause damage. If your lunch was full of acidic foods, there’s a good chance your enamel is weakened for a little while following chowing down. Instead of risking scratching and losing the enamel, wait at least a half an hour after eating before brushing.
It’s not only important to brush and floss, it’s crucial to do it correctly and follow basic rules. If you catch yourself making any of the above mistakes, try to get out of the habit as soon as possible. Additionally, make sure you keep up with appointments at my Modesto dental office. A great at-home routine paired with regular visits is a great way to keep your mouth healthy and happy.
Welcoming patients from Modesto, Riverbank,and Oakdale.