Ever since you were younger, you might’ve been told the importance of brushing and flossing. They are relatively simple things you’ve since added to your morning and nightly routine. That said, as they become habits, you might accidentally start to make some mistakes in your oral hygiene as you’ve started to autopilot through them. Here are four common ones people make; that way, you can stop them and get a stronger smile.
Improper Brushing
Brushing is an important step as it removes plaque from the surfaces of teeth. It should be done for two minutes, but recent studies concluded that people often do it for only about 45 seconds. Not doing it for the full time won’t let you effectively clean off bacteria and prevent dental problems.
You also shouldn’t do it too hard, as being too aggressive can cause your gums to pull away. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and a gentle hand; that way, your smile stays in great shape.
Skipping Flossing
A few people might consider flossing to be an optional part of their oral hygiene, but this isn’t the case! It’s a crucial step as it clears bacteria in places your toothbrush can’t reach, like in between your teeth and underneath your gumline. If you don’t clean these spots, then you increase your risk of gum disease and cavities, which can cause complications like sensitivity or inflammation in the beginning and tooth loss in advanced cases.
Using Whitening Products Too Often
In order to get rid of stains on your smile, you might try over-the-counter whitening products you find at your local department stores. You might use them consistently, but you may accidentally put them on for too long or too often. Over time, they may weaken and erode your enamel, leading to sensitivity. Make sure you stick to the instructions on the box, or you can ask your dentist about their professional treatment.
Going to the Dentist Only When There’s a Problem
Lastly, a few people might only go to their dentist when there’s something wrong with their smile. They might skip their routine checkups and cleanings, but these visits are crucial to avoid any problems in the first place. Having consistent preventive care will allow your provider to spot cavities, gum disease, and the like while they are small. That way, you can put a stop to them and avoid any issues later!
About the Author
Dr. Leah Byars earned her dental degree from the NYU College of Dentistry. She is dedicated to helping the Reston community get the stronger smiles they deserve with preventive care. Dr. Byars works to stop any dental problems with checkups and cleanings, but offers a wide range of treatments to fix up anything awry. If you are due for your next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call her office at (703) 570-1117.