Is your oral health suffering despite a good oral hygiene routine? It is possible that your method of caring for your mouth isn’t as good as you believed. Avoiding these common mistakes can help to keep your mouth clean and healthy.

Use of the Wrong Brush

Some people believe that a hard toothbrush with rigid bristles is the best way to clean the teeth. However, this aggressive approach can actually damage the teeth. Instead, choose a brush with soft, rounded bristles, and make sure you brush twice per day. Use a circular brushing motion and avoid harsh scrubbing back and forth.

Improper Flossing Technique

One of the biggest mistakes that people make for their oral hygiene has to do with flossing. While some people skip flossing altogether, others who do floss, don’t use the right technique. Instead of quickly snapping the floss between the teeth, it is important to hold the floss in a C shape.

Also, you should move down the floss to a new, clean portion between each tooth. Otherwise, you’ll simply reapply the removed plaque and bacteria to a new part of the tooth.

Neglecting Your Tongue

Another way that you could be harming your dental hygiene is if you only focus on the teeth. Your mouth is a hotbed for bacteria, and many of them accumulate on other parts of your mouth like your tongue. That’s why you need to brush your tongue thoroughly during each brushing session, and also take care to brush your gums, inside of your mouth, and other surfaces for a proper clean.

It is our goal to help you maintain a healthy mouth and smile. To do this, we need to see you regularly for cleanings and evaluations, removing plaque and tartar before they can damage your teeth. Call us today to set up your next appointment.