When it comes to maintaining great oral hygiene, are your seemingly “healthy” habits actually causing more harm than good? As one of residents’ favorite cosmetic dentists in Bucks County, PA, Dr. Richard Bash knows firsthand that some oral health practices that seem like a good idea can actually harm teeth more. If you’ve been practicing any of these six habits, you may inadvertently be harming your teeth!
- Using a hard-bristled toothbrush. Brushing with a hard or medium bristled toothbrush can damage your teeth’s enamel. Always remember to choose a soft or extra soft bristled brush when switching your old one out, and avoid using too much pressure while brushing, as this can also scratch the surface of your teeth.
- Excessively whitening. Whiter teeth don’t always mean healthier teeth! Whitening chemicals can be very harsh on the teeth if applied too often, weakening the enamel and potentially irritating your gums. If you’d like to whiten your teeth, consult a cosmetic dentist in Doylestown, PA first. We can help you get the pearly white smile you want without causing unnecessary damage to your teeth.
- Using charcoal and abrasive toothpastes. Gimmicky charcoal toothpastes and other abrasive options don’t just fail to whiten your teeth — they can also cause harm to your enamel. Always choose an ADA-approved, enamel-safe toothpaste.
- Drinking diet soda instead of full-sugar. You might think that switching to diet soda is better for your teeth. However, diet sodas and energy drinks are still highly acidic, and can eat through your enamel. Avoid acidic and dyed beverages as often as possible. If you do want to indulge in a sugary or acidic drink, try using a straw and periodically rinsing with water.
- Brushing right after drinking something acidic. Brushing immediately after consuming something acidic might seem like a quick-fix, but you may accidentally grind the low-pH substance into the crevasses of your teeth, harming them in the process. Wait between 30 to 40 minutes before you brush away the remnants.
- Flossing incorrectly. Did you know that it’s possible to floss incorrectly? Grinding your floss up into your gums can cause bleeding and trauma, making it easier for an infection to take root. Remember to be careful while flossing — and don’t be afraid to ask your dentist or oral hygienist to show you the ropes again!
When it comes to keeping your teeth white and healthy, stick to the basics: brush twice a day, floss daily, and remember to schedule bi-annual appointments with your dentist for cleanings and checkups. Anyone interested in scheduling an appointment with Bash Dental is encouraged to give us a call or fill out a contact request form.
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