You’re trying to take care of your teeth, but are you actually doing more harm than good?
There are well-intentioned things you might be doing to promote oral health that actually have the opposite effect, and your dentist isn’t too happy about it. Here are a few dental practices it might be time to drop for good.
1. You brush your teeth immediately after eating.
Contrary to popular belief, brushing straight after a meal can damage your enamel. Acids in food soften tooth enamel, and brushing too soon can wear it away. Wait at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing to allow your saliva to neutralise the acids.
2. You rinse your mouth with water after brushing.
Rinsing after brushing washes away the protective fluoride from your toothpaste. Instead, spit out excess toothpaste and avoid rinsing. This allows the fluoride to continue working, strengthening your teeth and preventing decay.
3. You use whitening toothpaste every day.
While whitening toothpaste can be effective, daily use can be abrasive and damage your enamel. Use it sparingly, perhaps once or twice a week, and stick to regular fluoride toothpaste for daily brushing.
4. You brush your teeth too hard.
Aggressive brushing doesn’t clean your teeth better; it can actually wear down enamel and irritate gums. Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle, circular motions. Let the bristles do the work, not your arm strength.
5. You ignore bleeding gums.
Many people think bleeding gums are normal, but they’re often a sign of gingivitis or early-stage gum disease. Don’t ignore this symptom; improve your oral hygiene routine and consult your dentist if the problem persists.
6. You use mouthwash to mask bad breath.
While mouthwash can freshen breath temporarily, it doesn’t address the underlying cause of halitosis. Regular brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning are more effective long-term solutions for bad breath.
7. You chew ice regularly.
Chewing ice might seem harmless, but it can crack or chip your teeth. It can also wear down enamel over time. If you find yourself craving ice, speak to your doctor as it might indicate an underlying health issue.
8. You use your teeth as tools.
Opening bottles, tearing packages, or holding items with your teeth might seem convenient, but it can lead to chips, cracks, or even tooth loss. Your teeth are for eating, not for being makeshift tools.
9. You constantly sip on sugary or acidic drinks.
Frequent sipping of sugary or acidic beverages like soda, fruit juices, or sports drinks bathes your teeth in harmful substances. This constant exposure increases your risk of tooth decay. Try to limit these drinks and use a straw when you do indulge.
10. You skip flossing because your gums bleed.
Bleeding gums during flossing often indicate that you need to floss more, not less. Regular flossing helps remove plaque and reduce gum inflammation. With consistent flossing, the bleeding should subside over time.
11. You brush only once a day.
Brushing just once daily leaves plaque and bacteria to accumulate on your teeth for extended periods. Dentists recommend brushing at least twice a day, ideally in the morning and before bed, to maintain optimal oral health.
12. You store your toothbrush in a closed container.
Keeping your toothbrush in a closed container creates a moist environment perfect for bacterial growth. Instead, store your toothbrush upright in an open area where it can air dry between uses.
13. You rely on mouthwash instead of flossing.
Mouthwash can’t replace flossing. While it can freshen breath and kill some bacteria, it can’t remove the plaque and food particles stuck between your teeth. Regular flossing is crucial for preventing cavities and gum disease.
14. You use baking soda or charcoal for teeth whitening.
DIY whitening methods like baking soda or activated charcoal can be abrasive and damage your enamel. These substances can also disrupt the pH balance in your mouth. Stick to dentist-approved whitening methods for safe and effective results.
15. You neglect your tongue when cleaning.
Your tongue harbours bacteria that can contribute to bad breath and affect overall oral health. Include tongue cleaning in your daily routine, either with your toothbrush or a tongue scraper, to maintain a truly clean mouth.
