All your dentist really asks of you is that you brush and floss twice daily. It sounds like such a simple request, and a relatively easy routine to uphold. However, there are a few common mistakes you need to avoid. Your daily dental routine should be simple, but appropriate. Breaking habits is harder than making them, so if you are guilty of any of these 5 mistakes, correct them right away.
1. Flossing for Food:
Now I know you hear this enough at your dental appointments, but it rings true: you need to floss every single day. Flossing is not just intended to remove food that is trapped between your chompers. While food removal is vitally important, so is plaque removal. Even if you have a few teeth that don’t touch, still scrape the floss along the sides of the tooth to clear away the fuzzy residue of the day. Make sure you floss at least once a day to scrape away the plaque that’s trapped.
2. Using the Wrong Toothbrush:
The right tool makes all the difference. Pair a great toothbrush with proper brushing technique and your teeth will thank you for it. Opt for a toothbrush with soft bristles and a head shape that allows you to reach to your back molars. It isn’t necessary to brush vigorously. The outer layer of the tooth is sensitive and should be treated with care. A gentle brushing is all you need to clear the daily plaque.
3. Neglecting the Tongue:
It’s not always about the teeth. Your tongue hangs on to all sorts of bacteria. To protect your teeth and your all over dental health, give your tongue a good brushing. This also does wonders for bad breath. You can thank me later.
4. Flossing Before Brushing:
Flossing is more beneficial after you have already brushed your teeth. The main goal of flossing is to remove any left over plaque hiding on the sides and between your teeth. Let the toothbrush do the bulk of the work. Follow up with flossing to get the little bits that are left behind.
5. Eating After Brushing:
After the first brush of the day, this is inevitable. But your last brush of the day should be the last flavor of the day. Feel free to have water at your bedside, but avoid late night snacking. Plaque collects as we sleep. Going to sleep after a meal or snack will only worsen that buildup. Go to bed fresh and wake up smiling.
And as a bonus, remember that your bi-annual dental cleaning does wonders for your dental health. A positive daily dental routine makes for pleasant dental visits! Give Eagle Rock Dental Care a call for all of your dental cleanings and procedures. We are happy to give you tips and tricks for the perfect dental routine. Contact us with any of your questions and request your appointment online today!
