Quality dental care is key to preventing cavities, gum disease, and other common oral health ailments. While most people know that they should brush twice a day, they may make simple mistakes that lessen the effectiveness of a solid hygiene routine. Here are some common mistakes to avoid so you can improve your teeth-cleaning efforts.

Which Dental Care Mistakes Should You Avoid?

1. Brushing Right After a Meal

Your instinct might be to brush your teeth as soon as you can after a meal to get rid of food debris. However, this can actually do more harm than good. In reality, you should wait 45 minutes to an hour after eating before brushing. This is because sugars and acids from food can temporarily weaken the enamel. Brushing while the enamel is in this vulnerable state can cause excess wear.

2. Ignoring the Gums and Tongue

Your teeth are just one part of your oral health. The tongue can also accumulate bacteria that contribute to bad breath and tooth decay. Brush it occasionally to remove germs. Make sure your gums also get proper care with daily flossing, as well. Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash once a day to prevent overall bacterial buildup.

3. Improper Brushing

Various habits can keep brushing from being as effective as it could be. Aggressive movements can actually damage the enamel and gums and increase tooth sensitivity. Many people do not spend enough time brushing either. You should brush for two minutes to achieve a thorough cleaning. Brushing for too long can also be problematic. While it doesn't always do any harm, it can cause tooth enamel to wear down prematurely, and it could also damage your gum tissue. 

Start brushing in a different position each time you brush your teeth. Alternating the starting position of your toothbrush ensures that you don’t subconsciously give one part of your teeth more attention than the rest.

Choose Holly Family Dentistry PLLC - William A. Pfeifer, DDS, in Centennial, CO, for all your dental care needs. This office has been serving the community since 1984. Their highly trained and skilled dentists provide compassionate and respectful care for advanced general and cosmetic dentistry work. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call (303) 850-7614 to schedule an appointment.