There’s a reason your choppers are called “permanent teeth” — they’re designed to last your whole lifetime!
And yet, the majority of Americans will have some kind of dental challenge during their lives. Tooth decay affects nearly 90% of adults in the United States (ages 20 to 64), and gum disease impacts half of adults ages 45 to 64.
According to the World Health Organization, these oral diseases are largely preventable, and it just takes a few minutes a day to give your teeth and gums the TLC they need. Here are some common mistakes that people make when it comes to dental hygiene and tips on how to avoid making them.
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- You’re not brushing twice a day. That’s the magic number, according to the American Dental Association. Brush when you get up in the morning and before bed, after you’ve finished eating and snacking.
- You’re not choosing the right kind of toothbrush. Dentists recommend soft-bristled brushes, because they’re gentle yet effective. Make sure you select a shape and size that fits easily in your mouth and allows you to reach all your teeth. Brushing your teeth should never feel uncomfortable.
- You’re not replacing your toothbrush frequently enough. The more you use your toothbrush, the more worn-down the bristles get. Frayed bristles can be less effective than newer ones. Replace your toothbrush when you notice the wear-and-tear, which will likely be every three to four months.
- You’re not using the right toothpaste. There are so many to choose from! The toothpaste you select should be approved by the ADA and should have fluoride. See the ADA’s accepted product list here.
- You’re not brushing for long enough. You should aim for two minutes twice a day. If you have an electric toothbrush, it may have a timer that lets you know when you’ve hit that goal. If you need a little inspiration, look for toothbrushing songs online and make it a musical experience.
- Your technique isn’t quite right. Our parents or caregivers likely influenced how we each brush and could vary from person to person. So the way you’re brushing may not be wrong, per se, but it may not match the ADA’s suggested approach, which entails holding your brush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth and brushing in short, gentle strokes back and forth.
- You forget to floss. Flossing removes the bits and bobs that hide between your teeth that your brush can’t reach. Studies have shown that flossing can reduce gum disease, sometimes known as gingivitis, more than brushing alone can and it can also reduce plaque and help prevent bad breath. It would be best if you were flossing once a day in addition to brushing.
- You’re not brushing your tongue. Like your teeth, your tongue comes into contact with food and can hold on to bacteria. Be sure to give your tongue a gentle once-over each time you brush.
- You’re drinking sugary beverages. When you drink a soda, energy drink, fruit juice or any sugary beverage, it jumpstarts a process that could damage your teeth. That’s because bacteria in our mouths feed off sugar; when those bacteria consume sugar, they produce acid that can damage teeth by causing cavities or other problems. Instead of that sweet drink, opt for water, unsweetened tea, milk or juice that’s been diluted. And after you’ve brushed at night, stick with water.
- You’re not eating a balanced diet. Nutrition and good oral health go hand in hand. In addition to limiting your sugary beverages—and sugary snacks—make it a goal to drink lots of water and eat a mix of foods from the five major food groups, including fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat or fat-free dairy products. That way, you give your body the vitamins and minerals needed to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- You smoke or use tobacco products. Smoking can be bad for your oral health and hygiene—even if you take good care of your teeth. For starters, people who smoke double their risk of developing gum disease, which is an infection of the gums that can impact the bones supporting the teeth. In addition, tobacco (including cigarettes, smokeless tobacco and other products) can cause oral cancer, increase the risk for head and neck cancer, and can lead to tooth decay and even tooth loss, according to the CDC.
- You’re not getting regular cleanings and exams by a dentist. You should make appointments to see your dentist once or twice a year. They can give your teeth a good cleaning and remove plaque and stains. They can also X-ray your mouth and examine your teeth and gums to look for things like cavities, decay, deterioration, abscesses and other potential problems, including some types of oral cancer. If they find anything, they may be able to treat it right there in the office, refer you to a specialist or help you devise a longer-term plan.
While your oral health refers to your teeth and mouth, it can also impact your overall health. Dental problems could be connected to other health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and more. When you have good oral hygiene habits, you may avoid common problems such as bad breath, cavities, gum disease, tooth loss and more, while supporting your overall health. Plus, isn’t fresh breath and a healthy smile worth it?
