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Yikes! Teeth-Cleaning Mistakes That Make Your Dentist Cringe

June 30, 2022

Filed under: Uncategorizeddrkics @ 5:59 pm
Team photo of doctors at Westgate Dental Care

When it comes to oral care, all you have to do is brush twice a day and floss daily, right? Actually, there is a lot more to it! In fact, even if you’re an avid brusher, you may be making a few errors that are compromising the condition of your teeth and gums. With this in mind, keep reading to learn a few teeth-cleaning mistakes that make your dentist cringe!

Mistake #1: You Rarely Replace Your Toothbrush

Be honest… when was the last time you replaced your toothbrush? If the answer is “more than three months ago,” then it’s been too long! Getting a new one (or switching the head of your electric one) every quarter is essential for effectively cleaning your teeth. After all, using a dirty toothbrush to clean your teeth is like using a dirty sponge to clean your dishes.

Mistake #2: You Go Overboard on the Whitening Products

In an effort to blast away stubborn stains, you may ignore the instructions on your whitening products. Don’t! Overuse can result in several complications, including enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity. The best way to safely restore your bright, white smile is to talk to your dentist about professional teeth whitening. With a licensed dental professional overseeing your treatment, you can achieve the beautiful results you desire while preserving your oral health.

Mistake #3: You Rush Through Your Oral Hygiene Regimen

Did you know that most people only brush their teeth for 45 seconds at a time? To properly clean your teeth, you should be brushing for a full two minutes. In the same vein, make sure to rinse with mouthwash for the suggested amount of time on the label. Neglecting to do so can leave behind food particles, bacteria, and the like.

Mistake #4: You Don’t Floss Daily

In short, brushing only cleans about 60% of the surface of your teeth. To properly clean between your teeth and along your gumline, it’s of the utmost importance that you floss. If you don’t like traditional floss, try using a pre-threaded variety or a water flosser.

Mistake #5: You Don’t Visit the Dentist Annually

Remember, biannual checkups and cleanings aren’t optional; they are essential. Each visit allows your dentist to remove plaque build-up and clean the hard-to-reach areas of your mouth, all while checking for cavities, screening for oral cancer, and checking the condition of any existing restorations.

Your teeth ensure you can smile confidently and chew pain-free, so make sure to care for them properly! If you want to get a refresher on proper technique or you are overdue for your six-month visit, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist.

About the Practice

Obsessed with excellence, our team at Westgate Dental Care is here to provide you with the world-class dental care you deserve. While that extends to everything from essential restorative treatments and smile-enhancing cosmetic dentistry, it starts with preventive care. We’re proud to provide you with meticulous checkups and thorough cleanings to create a healthy foundation for your smile. If you want to learn more about proper oral hygiene or you’d like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (847) 577-7171.

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