Taking care of your teeth is easy when it’s part of your morning and night routine. But dental care is more than brushing and flossing a couple of times a day. A Huntsville dentist would know that the wrong habits are doing more to hurt your smile than anything else. Here are 4 mistakes you’re making with your dental care routine that are doing more harm than good.
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Brushing too hard
Have you ever taken the time to think about the kind of toothbrush you use? Of course, electric toothbrushes are arguably better, while soft bristle and hard bristle toothbrushes each have their unique benefits. But none of that matters if you’re brushing too hard. The best dentists know that brushing too hard scrapes the enamel right off the surface of your teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) also recommends changing your toothbrush every three to four months, especially if the bristles are frayed or hardened.
Eating and drinking acidic foods and beverages
Orange juice is great in the morning with a bowl of cereal or a hot stack of pancakes. Candy tastes great too and so do alcohol and other acidic foods and drinks. Acidic foods and beverages can also damage the enamel on your teeth while causing you to feel a burning sensation along the gums. The acid in these foods and beverages can also further irritate gum injuries or other dental-related problems. If you don’t want to feel the burn, limit acidic food and drink choices. You can also drink plenty of water to keep your teeth clean and fresh.
Using too much whitening toothpaste
Using whitening toothpaste removes dark stains and yellowing from the teeth using special chemicals and polishing agents. The problem is that some people may report feeling increased tooth sensitivity as a result of using whitening toothpaste. Tooth sensitivity means your teeth are sensitive to hot and cold food or drinks, brushing and flossing, and contact. Overall, whitening toothpaste may be most effective if used temporarily, but long-term consistent use may harm your teeth.
Not using mouthwash
Dentists recommend rinsing your mouth with a non-alcoholic mouthwash several times a day. The formula in these products is designed to rid your teeth, gums, and tongue of germs that cause bad breath, cavities, and periodontal disease. Rinsing either before or after you brush will also free up small bits of food you might not be able to remove by brushing alone. Try adding mouthwash to your dental routine or the consequences may appear on the surfaces of your teeth.
Your teeth deserve to look clean. But if you’re brushing too hard, not using mouthwash, or eating too much, you’re bound to notice the difference in how your teeth look and feel. Even whitening toothpaste can hurt your teeth if used correctly. Understand the four dental care mistakes hurting your smile. You’ll be glad you did by the time you visit the dentist again.
