Our teeth are strong– but they have their limits. Between drinking coffee, eating sweets, and chewing on ice– we stain, chip, and damage them daily.
While some of the damage is unavoidable, you might be making some other dental mistakes every single day without even knowing it.
We’re looking at 6 of the most common dental mistakes people make. Take a look and if you’ve been too hard on your teeth, consider changing your routine.
Brushing Too Hard.
When it comes to brushing your teeth, harder isn’t always better. While it’s good to be thorough, you don’t need to overdo it.
Brushing too hard can cause damage to your gums, making them vulnerable to infection and erosion. If you brush too vigorously you can also wear down the enamel on your teeth.
Your enamel acts as a shield for your pearly whites, and without it, you may experience sensitivities and become more susceptible to cavities.
Avoiding The Dentist.
The American Dental Association recommends bi-yearly cleanings and exams. If you want optimal oral health, you need X-Rays and regular cleanings done. Letting too much time pass between appointments can result in small issues becoming bigger issues, and even other health problems related to poor dental health.
Not Replacing Your Toothbrush.
A good rule of thumb to remember about your toothbrush is, “If it starts to fray, throw it away.” Regardless of the condition of your toothbrush, opting for a new one every 3 months is ideal and recommended by the American Dental Association. This will ensure you’re using strong, clean bristles– and making the most of your brushing.
Biting Your Nails.
Biting your nails may seem harmless, but don’t tell that to your teeth. Regardless of why you bite them, it can lead to some unfortunate damage. Some side effects include splintered enamel, broken teeth, and shifting teeth.
Brushing After Eating Something Acidic.
Skipping The Floss.
Finally, one of the biggest dental mistakes you might be making is not flossing enough– or at all. Even the best toothbrushes can miss things sometimes, so flossing can help make up the difference. If you don’t floss, you miss cleaning over 30% of your tooth’s surface. Bad flossing habits can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Now You Know.
Now that you know what not to do, you’ll be able to take better care of your teeth, and hopefully, help to avoid future dental issues. Were you making any of these mistakes?
You only get one set of permanent teeth– don’t you want to make them last? You should always see us twice a year, so if it’s been over six months since your last cleaning/exam, make an appointment today.
Ever since he was little Dr. J. Fred Arnold wanted to be a dentist. He has lived in Kentucky all of his life, except for three years he spent serving in the Air Force (1984-1987). He and his wife Holly have raised their family here and couldn’t imagine spending life anywhere else. They love the great schools and the emphasis on arts and culture.
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