Good oral hygiene is the foundation for a healthy smile. It allows you to protect your teeth and gums and reduces the risk of developing periodontal disease and other issues. There are some common oral hygiene mistakes that you may not know about. If you’re guilty of any of these, you could be doing more harm to your teeth than good. The following are five oral hygiene mistakes you should avoid to ensure healthy teeth, gums, and bone.
What is oral hygiene?
A good oral hygiene routine keeps your teeth and gums clean. Many issues can result from poor oral hygiene, including gingivitis and cavities. More serious issues such as oral cysts and trauma to the teeth also benefit from good oral hygiene practice. Additionally, if you’ve undergone any oral surgery such as a wisdom tooth removal, it’s essential that you take care of your teeth and gums for proper healing.
Mistake #1: Poor nutrition
A diet high in processed foods that contain sugar can contribute to poor dental health and lead to tooth decay. Nutrient deficiencies prevent the oral tissues from fighting off infection, and this can indirectly increase the risk of periodontal disease. Adequate hydration helps to flush away bacteria and water is an ideal alternative to acidic and high-sugar drinks.
Mistake #2: Brushing incorrectly
In order to get the best results from brushing, you need to use the right technique. The acids and sugars in foods can lead to damage to the enamel of the teeth. To eliminate long-term exposure, brush after every meal using a brush aligned at 45 degrees to the gum line. Avoid brushing with a lot of pressure as this can irritate the gums, use circular motions and move the bristles around all sides of the teeth.
Mistake #3: Not keeping your tongue clean
Teeth and gums aren’t the only parts of a healthy mouth. You should take time to keep your tongue clean using a tongue scraper. This reduces bacteria that can buildup and helps prevent bad breath.
Mistake #4: Using the wrong tools
You may notice that there is a variety of toothbrushes on the market. Some are designed with angled or round bristles. Your dentist can help you determine what type of toothbrush works best for you. In general, angled bristles are a good choice for thorough cleaning. While most people gravitate to hard bristles thinking they’ll offer a better clean, they can actually irritate the enamel and gums. Choose a toothbrush with softer bristles to reach between teeth comfortably.
Mistake #5: Avoiding the dentist
This is perhaps the most common oral hygiene mistake. It’s also the one that can have the biggest impact. Your dentist can provide a thorough cleaning while monitoring the health of your teeth and gums over time. This can prevent unwanted and costly issues in the future. If you want to get the most out of your dental health, having a good oral hygiene routine sets a foundation for long-term health. Avoid these oral hygiene mistakes to prevent disease and keep your healthy smile.