It is a new year, and that means we are setting new goals and breaking old habits. Dedicate a few of your New Year’s resolutions this year for your oral hygiene. The health of your teeth and gums can affect the health of your entire body.
Taking care of your smile can improve your health and your confidence. Northborough MA dentist Dr. Robert Gauthier knows that proper at-home oral hygiene is the foundation for a healthy and beautiful smile. Be sure to end your bad brushing habits in 2017 for your best oral health.
Break Your Bad Oral Hygiene Habits
Bad Habit: Brushing Immediately After Eating
Why It Is Bad: Brushing immediately after you eat can actually cause damage to your teeth. The acids in the foods and beverages we consume can wear away tooth enamel. When you brush right after eating you may spread the acid around causing more damage to your enamel.
How To Break It: We understand wanting to freshen your breath and remove food debris from your teeth. You should just wait 30 minutes before brushing. While you wait to brush, you can chew a piece of ADA approved sugar free gum or drink a large glass of water to help rinse out your mouth.
Bad Habit: Tight Toothbrush Storage
Why It Is Bad: You might think putting a cap on your toothbrush will keep airborne particles from making contact with your brush. The reality is that putting your damp toothbrush in a dark case can lead to bacteria growth. Your toothbrush needs air to dry in between uses.
How To Break It: Store your toothbrushes at least 6 feet away from your toilet. Make sure you store your toothbrush with the bristle side up, and separate from other brushes. The air will dry out your brush in between uses which will keep bacteria and mold from growing in the bristles.
Bad Habit: Keeping A Toothbrush Too Long
Why It Is Bad: Bristles only last so long. If you keep your brush for too long the bristles weaken and can not clean your teeth as effectively.
How To Break It: Replace your brush every 3-4 months or a soon as the bristles begin to wear. A good reminder to change your brush is the changing of seasons. Change your brush every time the seasons change to be sure you are getting your optimal clean.
Schedule a Dental Exam Northborough, MA
Schedule an appointment at our Northborough dental office. Regular check ups and dental cleanings can help your body fight off bacteria and keep your smile bright and healthy.
Our Apex Dental dentists utilize state of the art technology and their years of experience and education to offer patients quality dental care in a supportive environment.