It is so easy to get into rut when it comes to your daily dental routine. That is why our O’Fallon dentists have put together this short overview of things to look out for when it comes to caring for your smile. We hope that this information empowers you to take control of your dental health and revamp your routine. Let’s get started!
Here are some mistakes you may be making without even realizing it:
Skipping water as you start your day
When you wake up in the morning your body is dehydrated, so it is crucial that you kick off your day with a glass of water. You want to sip some water right away so that your body can start producing saliva and re-mineralizing dental enamel.
Using the wrong toothbrush
It is worth it to take some time ensure that you are using a toothbrush that is right for your smile. The first thing to consider is bristle strength—most of us will want to use soft-bristled brushes—talk to your dentist if you don’t know what’s right for you. You also want to make sure that the head of the toothbrush is small enough to reach the back corners of your smile.
Picking at your smile with pointy tools
Metal and wooden toothpicks can actually do more harm than good when it comes to supporting oral health. Rather than relying on these potentially problematic tools, try to dislodge dental debris using floss or mouth rinse.
Skimping on brushing time
Every time that you brush your smile, you should try to brush for at least two minutes. Try setting a timer or listening to a two-minute-long song to stay on track.
Not addressing dry mouth at night
If you are someone who suffers from sleep apnea or breathes through your mouth, then you are likely losing a lot of moisture through your mouth during the night. Unfortunately, this can create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Talk to your dentist about things that you can do to combat dry mouth, including using a specially formulated mouth rinse before bed.
If you want to learn more about things that you can do to quickly and conveniently improve your oral health, our O’Fallon dentists are here to help!