Where Do We Usually Go Wrong While Practicing Oral Hygiene?

Good oral hygiene is all about keeping your teeth and gums clean. This means brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing. In addition to brushing and flossing, good oral hygiene also means eating a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco use, and having your teeth cleaned by your dentist.

However, when practicing oral hygiene, there is a myriad of things that can go wrong. We will discuss some of the common things.

Not brushing your teeth properly

Some individuals brush their teeth for 2 or 3 minutes, very hard. That’s too long. It’s not necessary. Overzealous brushing can lead to receding gums and tooth decay. Besides, vigorous brushing can affect dental enamel and cause teeth damage. Each session should last 2 minutes. Not brushing for 2 minutes also can affect the effectiveness of your oral care. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure.

Ignoring the gums

The gums deserve more attention than teeth. If your gums are inflamed or bleeding, it could be a sign of gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to tooth loss. The gums also need to be cleaned with a toothbrush and floss.

Not flossing

Brushing your teeth twice a day is absolutely essential if you want to maintain good oral health. However, it is not enough to clean all your teeth thoroughly. Brushing can only reach the surfaces of your teeth. Flossing, on the other hand, is designed to reach between your teeth and under the gum line. Plaque and tartar tend to accumulate here, which is why flossing twice every day is a must.

Ignoring the dental prosthesis

Patients often forget about their dental prostheses. Failing to clean the prosthesis may cause bacterial deposits and stains, which may give it a yellowish appearance.

Ignoring the tongue

Your tongue should also be brushed. The tongue contains tons of bacteria, which can have a bad impact on your teeth and gums. Ideally, you should brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth.

Ignoring your diet

What you eat has a huge impact on your oral health. If you eat a lot of sugary food, it promotes tooth decay by feeding the bacteria in your mouth. Eating junk food also negates all the efforts you take to brush your teeth twice a day. It is important to avoid snacking throughout the day and to clean your teeth and mouth after eating.