5 Ways You Damage Your Teeth
5 Ways You Damage Your Teeth – Even if you’re diligent about caring for your teeth, you may still be making mistakes in your oral hygiene routine. Watch this video to learn 5 ways you might be damaging your teeth.
Expert: Paul Fletcher, DDS Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, Specialized Dentistry of New York
Transcript
A beautiful smile and healthy teeth and gums depend upon daily care-done right. So let’s take a look at the FIVE most common dental mistakes and how to avoid them.
Mistake number one: Improper brushing. You may brush TOO HARD and that can cause receding gums and tooth sensitivity. And you may brush FROM SIDE TO SIDE. Wrong again. You want a gentle circular motion over each tooth to protect your gums and tooth enamel. The key is to brush thoroughly, but gently.
Mistake number two: Rushing when brushing. Caring for your teeth takes time. Ideally, you should brush for two minutes twice a day.
Mistake number 3: Forgetting to floss is another common dental mistake. Flossing at least once a day removes plaque and tartar buildup between the teeth that can lead to cavities, calcifications and gum disease.
Mistake number four: USING the wrong toothbrush: The American Dental Association recommends soft bristles for best results; and select a brush that is the right size for your mouth and hand.
Mistake number five: And the last common mistake you may make is SKIPPING dental appointments. Even if you are great at daily self-care, you need to see your dentist at least every six months for a cleaning and checkup.
If problems, such as gum disease, are developing, catching them early reduces the damage they can cause-and the cost of repairing the damage. So, to keep oral problems at a minimum, don’t make these mistakes and stay on top or your oral health routine.
Last Modified: 2014-01-10
Category: Health and Nutrition, Videos
