Everyone has bad habits. From spending too much money on coffee to spending too much time on social media, certain habits are hard to quit. This goes for dental hygiene too. Some of your daily routines and habits could negatively impact your teeth!
Here is a list of common dental mistakes and habits that hurt the health of your teeth.
Brushing your teeth too hard
Some may believe brushing teeth aggressively will help scrub bacteria away and lead to an overall healthier mouth. However, brushing too hard actually leads to gum recession and teeth sensitivity. For the best results, use slow, wide and circular strokes when brushing your teeth.
Biting your nails or chewing on pens
Biting nails or chewing on pens and pencils are common nervous habits to have. These seemingly harmless habits can cause tooth damage and wear. Chewing and biting on objects puts extra pressure on your teeth which can cause them to shift out of alignment. Also, bacteria on pens, pencils or hands could transfer to your gums and teeth. Overall, this increases the chances of bacterial build-up and plague.
Brushing your teeth too soon after eating or drinking
After eating your breakfast and sipping your morning coffee, you may be tempted to immediately brush your teeth. Tooth enamel softens as you eat or drink, so brushing too soon after can cause damage. To be safe, wait at least 20 minutes before brushing your teeth after eating or drinking.
Using a hard bristle toothbrush
Choosing the right toothbrush is important for your overall oral health. Using hard bristles can wear down your tooth enamel, which leaves them more vulnerable to decay and bacterial build-up. Instead, reach for a soft bristle brush and check out our tips on how to brush your teeth effectively.
Start a good dental hygiene habit by booking a cleaning with Jackson Dental! Call us at (573) 243-5200 or stop by our office at 3100 E Jackson Blvd., Jackson, MO. to get an appointment scheduled.