Top Mistakes People Make about Dental Care
Though brushing is important, regular brushing does not necessarily mean that you are keeping your teeth healthy. Here are five common mistakes that people make when it comes to their oral health.
- Brushing Too Hard
People often think they have to brush hard to remove plaque and stains from their teeth. But brushing too hard can damage the enamel on your teeth. Gentle brushing is all that is needed to remove plaque and everyday stains. - Not Brushing Long Enough
People on average spend about 46 seconds brushing their teeth. But dentists say you should brush for at least 2 minutes. Do not rely on your ability to keep time. Use a timer to ensure that you brush for the full 2 minutes. - Not Brushing Evenly
You may learn during a dental exam that you brush some of your teeth better than others. To help make sure all of your teeth get the attention they deserve, brush in each quadrant of your mouth for 30 seconds, and start with a different quadrant each time you brush. And be sure you are adequately cleaning the back teeth. - Not Flossing
People overlook the importance of flossing. Brushing cannot remove plaque and debris from between your teeth. Flossing is the only way to clean these areas, so be sure to floss daily. - Drinking Fruit Juice at Bedtime
True that fruit juice and smoothies are good for your overall health. But They contain sugars and acid, which wreak havoc on your teeth. If you are in need of a refreshing beverage at bedtime or during a late night awakening, grab a glass of water instead.