If you’re like most people, you know the basics of good dental hygiene. They include brushing for two minutes, twice a day, and flossing at least once a day. Unfortunately, the majority of adults still don’t manage to make it happen on a daily basis. And there’s one common oral hygiene mistake in particular your dentist in Vernon Hill sees over and over again. What is it? We’ve got the answer in this week’s blog post — keep reading to make sure it doesn’t happen to you!
The #1 Oral Hygiene Mistake Is…
Guess what? Most people brush their teeth — just not thoroughly enough! Adults and kids alike often skip over the inside part of the tooth, or the part that your tongue rubs up against. They focus on the outsides of the teeth instead, maybe because that’s the only part you usually see. Unfortunately, plaque and tartar buildup here places you at a higher risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
Another common issue when it comes to brushing is not doing it for the proper amount of time. You should brush for two minutes, twice a day, but after each meal is even better. Cleaning around each quadrant of the teeth for 30 seconds each is crucial for proper oral hygiene.
Clean Teeth, Healthy Smile
If you need a brush up on proper brushing (and flossing!) techniques, no need to worry. That’s what we’re here for! To enjoy clean teeth and a healthy, long lasting smile, make sure you…
- Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, focusing on each quadrant for 30 seconds
- Use a soft bristled toothbrush
- Move in gentle circles across the teeth rather than hard back and forth strokes, which can injure the gums
- Brush with a fluoridated toothpaste
- Floss between each of your teeth (and around the very back teeth, too) at least once a day
- Add an antiseptic mouthrinse for additional cleaning
- Visit your dentist every six months or as often as recommended
The Importance of Preventive Care
It’s always easier to stop a problem from occurring than it is to correct an existing issue, and that’s why your dentist urges you to stay on top of preventive care. With a checkup and cleaning every six months, we can spot areas where you may not be brushing or flossing thoroughly enough — like those insides of the teeth — and provide tips on how to get a better clean at home. And if you do develop cavities or gum disease, getting frequent examinations will ensure that we can catch these issues almost as soon as they develop in order to provide you with the most conservative treatment possible.
So what’s to glean from all this information? The recipe for a healthy, lasting smile is simple: just brush your teeth thoroughly, floss daily, and visit your dentist as recommended! We look forward to helping you enjoy a excellent oral health for a lifetime to come.
About the Authors
Your trusted Lake Forest dental team provides outstanding care for patients of all ages. To learn more about their general dentistry services or to schedule an appointment for high quality treatment, you are invited to contact the office at 847-234-4800.
