5 Dental Hygiene Mistakes to Avoid

Much like developing a skincare routine for your ultimate glow, establishing a dental hygiene routine is the key to achieving a vibrant smile. Unfortunately, not everyone is well-versed in the art of proper and effective dental care. In fact, without the right guidance and care, you might even fall into some bad habits that unknowingly harm your teeth and gums. 

That’s where we come in. At Supertooth Dental Group, our highly trained providers, located in West Hollywood, California, are here to offer guidance on how to avoid oral hygiene mistakes and what treatment solutions are best for your ultimate smile goals.  

We’ll kickstart your journey by diving into the top five dental hygiene mistakes to avoid, ensuring your oral health stays in top-notch shape. 

1. Overlooking the importance of a proper brushing technique

Brushing your teeth correctly is a fundamental part of maintaining your oral hygiene. On the other hand, doing it incorrectly can do more harm than good. Here’s what we recommend: 

Use a soft-bristled brush 

This is especially important because soft bristles are gentle on your gums and tooth enamel, which ultimately reduces the risk of irritation and damage. They can still effectively clean your teeth without being too harsh. 

Use the correct motion 

We recommend brushing at a 45-degree angle in circular motions to reach all of the surfaces of your teeth. 

Brush your tongue 

One step most people forget is to brush their tongues to remove bacteria. The added bonus? This keeps your breath fresh at the same time. 

2. Neglecting flossing in your routine 

Unfortunately, flossing tends to be one of the steps that gets skipped most. Many people assume it’s not as crucial as brushing, but we’re here to make you see just how important it really is. While brushing helps clean the surface of your teeth, flossing reaches the tight spaces between them. This is essential for removing plaque and food particles in those hard-to-reach areas. And by skipping this, you miss out on cleaning about 40% of your teeth, which can lead to a build-up of bacteria. 

3. Using the wrong toothpaste or mouthwash 

Not all toothpaste and mouthwash products are created equal. Choosing the wrong products can gradually lead to oral health issues. For example, some toothpaste and mouthwash formulas lack essential fluoride, which ultimately increases the risk of tooth decay. 

Additionally, mouthwash with a high alcohol content can lead to dry mouth, causing bad breath and potential dental problems. That’s why it’s so important to think before you buy and consult with our team if you have any questions about what to look for in your products. 

4. Ignoring regular dental check-ups 

Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind is that it’s always best not to wait for dental issues to surface before scheduling an appointment with our team. We recommend adopting proactive measures for your ultimate oral health goals. 

You can achieve this by visiting us every six months for check-ups and cleanings, always addressing your concerns promptly, and prioritizing preventive care as we see fit to keep your smile sparkling. 

5. Underestimating the importance of nutrition

Lastly, we can’t emphasize enough how important it is not to overlook the impact of dietary choices on your oral health. Avoiding this is easier than you think. Start by limiting sugary and acidic foods that contribute to tooth decay. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables for essential vitamins and minerals. And, when in doubt, never skip hydration. Drink plenty of water to promote saliva production, neutralizing acids and protecting your teeth in the meantime. 

In the end, we hope we’ve emphasized just how crucial it is to provide your smile with the best care. By avoiding common dental hygiene mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to ensuring a lifetime of healthy smiles. 

If you’re ready to learn more about oral care and tips, use our online booking tool to make an appointment with our team today!