Posted 2 years ago 2 Minute(s) to read

Oral hygiene is important for keeping your teeth looking nice but is also very important in preventing any issues with your teeth and gums.

We often find that some people think they are doing the right thing with their oral hygiene routine however they make small mistakes that can make a big difference. 

We’ve put together this list of common mistakes and tips for you to utilise in maintaining a beautifully healthy smile. 

 

 

  1. Brushing too hard: A lot of people think the harder they brush, the cleaner their teeth will be. This is a misconception and can actually cause a lot of damage to your teeth and gums. Brushing too vigorously can cause the enamel on your teeth to wear out, making them more susceptive to decay.
  2. Brushing too fast: Not giving your teeth the proper maintenance, twice a day, will only cause problems in the long run. Allocate yourself 2 minutes, twice a day, to ensure you are brushing all of your teeth and your tongue. A lot of bacteria is collected on your tongue which transfers to your teeth so it’s important you gently brush it as well.
  3. Not staying hydrated: Dehydration causes your mouth to become dry meaning there is reduced saliva in your mouth. Saliva helps your teeth stay strong and reduces the chance of any infection. It also helps them stay clean by washing away any excess food particles.
  4. Wrong toothbrush: This goes back to number 1. We always recommend a soft bristle toothbrush to avoid any enamel wear from brushing. Hard bristle toothbrushes can cause too much wear to the teeth and are best kept for cleaning old boots!
  5. Not replacing your toothbrush: Your toothbrush needs to be replaced every 3-4 months. If your brush becomes worn out before 3 months, you are probably brushing your teeth too hard. Changing your toothbrush regularly is important to minimise the transportation of bacteria and to ensure your teeth are being cleaned properly.
  6. Brushing immediately after eating: It may seem like a very logical thing to do to ensure no food sits in our teeth for long however brushing immediately after a meal can do more harm than good. It is best to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid causing damage to the enamel.
  7. Flossing and Gargling: These are two habits that are very beneficial to get used to. Flossing is essential in remove bacteria and excess food from your teeth and reduces the likelihood of decay. Gargling with a dentist approved mouthwash is great in reducing the chances of gum diseases and improves your overall oral hygiene.

Follow these steps along with your usual dental check ups (every 6 months) to improve your oral health.