You only get one set of adult teeth, so it's important to care for yours the best you can. In addition to brushing your teeth at least twice a day, there's plenty you can be doing to care for your teeth and gums. Unfortunately, there are many common mistakes people tend to make that can put their oral health at risk. Are you guilty of any of them?
Skipping Your Routine Dental Exams
Most adults should have two dental exams and cleanings per year. Unfortunately, many people forego these exams and cleanings when they feel that nothing is wrong with their teeth, but skipping cleanings can lead to dangerous plaque and tartar build-up, which can eventually cause tooth decay and problems like gum disease. Even if you don't notice any problems with your teeth, twice-annual exams are the best way to care for your oral health.
Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard
Brushing your teeth is obviously an important component of your dental hygiene, but did you know that brushing too hard can be damaging to your teeth and gums? Specifically, brushing too hard can wear away your teeth enamel, which can make you more prone to tooth sensitivity and decay. Furthermore, brushing too hard can irritate the gums. If you ever notice blood while brushing your teeth, there's a good chance you're brushing too hard.
Not Flossing at Least Once a Day
Be honest. Do you floss daily? If not, you could be putting your oral health at risk. Even thorough brushing twice a day cannot remove the food build-up in between your teeth, so when you skip flossing, this build-up can eventually harden into tartar. Over time, that tartar can build up around and even underneath the gum line, leading to gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis.
Ignoring Signs of Dental Problems
Finally, if you ignore symptoms, chances are good that they're only going to get worse until you have no choice but to see a dentist. Some common symptoms of dental problems to have checked out right away include tooth pain, sudden sensitivity to hot/cold, bleeding or irritated gums, and chipped or cracked teeth. These could be signs of serious problems like decay and gum disease that need to be addressed right away.
By avoiding these common dental health mistakes, you can take better care of your smile and potentially avoid costly and unpleasant dental procedures as well. Visit websites like http://www.thefamilydentist-lakeland.com for more information.
