We all know just how much of an impact the condition of our teeth and oral hygiene has on our confidence as a factor that plays a massive role in the first impression we give others. However, having pearly white chompers is not just about giving off the best first impression and smiling with absolute confidence, as oral hygiene issues can lead to painful complaints.
Even the slightest nagging toothache can turn into a daily challenge that keeps you from enjoying meals and drinks as you once did. To help you ensure that a small mistake in your dental hygiene routine is not causing you discomfort or degrading your teeth and gums’ health, we have listed the most common oral hygiene mistakes with practical solutions.
Avoiding The Dentist
While most of us don’t avoid the dentist when we have nagging tooth pain or another notable reason to book a consultation with an Anchorage orthodontist or a renowned orthodontist near you, we tend to avoid the dentist when there is no significant issue. Neglecting twice-yearly checkups simply because you feel your teeth and gums are in ideal health can lead to problems as there could be underlying issues that are not visible to the naked eye.
A dentist or professional orthodontist will be able to identify the earliest signs of a cavity developing, remove stubborn stains, and assist with all your other dental needs. Be sure to visit your dentist at least twice each year, even if you feel your oral health is up to standard.
Using A Hard Toothbrush
If you use a hard bristle toothbrush, chances are you may be scrubbing away the protective layer of enamel on your teeth without even knowing it. Harsh brushing can lead to cavities, yellowing teeth, and receding gums. Instead of opting for hard bristle toothbrushes, you should reach for the softest and brush your teeth with care. A soft bristle toothbrush may not last as long, although your teeth will be in better health due to this simple change.
Forgetting To Floss
Forgetting to floss is a mistake anyone can make. Whether you’re rushing when late for work or simply forgot to buy more floss on your last trip to the store. However, forgetting to floss can harm the health of your teeth and your gums. This is because leftover food particles can get stuck between your teeth and start to rot.
Unfortunately, if left long enough, the rot will affect the health of your gums and your teeth over time. While you should floss after each brush, it is also essential to thoroughly floss between each tooth. At the same time, you should not apply too much force when flossing, as this action can harm your gums, cause cuts, and ongoing gum pain.
Rinsing Your Mouth After Meals
It is not the best idea to brush too often; just as a hard bristle brush can be damaging, brushing too often can be equally damaging. Instead of brushing after each meal, you should rinse your mouth thoroughly with either water, saltwater, or a suitable mouth wash. This will clean food particles and prevent bad breath at the same time.
Be sure to opt for a mouth wash that is not too harsh. You should also avoid swallowing any mouthwash as the formula is not intended for consumption. What’s more, gargling for a minute or two is also essential for fresh breath.
Choosing The Right Toothpaste
Not all kinds of toothpaste are the same as some are intended to lighten teeth while others focus on sensitivity, and others are just regular fluoride formulas. Therefore, it is quite understandable how choosing the right toothpaste can be confusing as a common mistake most of us have already made in our lives at least once. If a toothpaste formula is too potent for you, it will cause your gums and teeth. Instead, it is best to speak to your orthodontist to determine which toothpaste is best for you.
The same toothpaste that’s right for you may not be suitable for the next person, so you should avoid searching online for ways to pick the best toothpaste and instead rely on your dentist’s professional opinion. You should also apply this approach when choosing floss, a toothbrush, and a mouth wash as these products are not standardly suitable for everyone.
DIY Bleaching Practices
There are tons of at-home bleaching kits and products available online and in stores that promise to be safe enough for home-usage. However, teeth whitening should only be done with the professional help of a dentist. These products can strip your teeth of protective enamel and cause sensitivity, pain, and other severe dental issues.