6 habits your dentist wishes you would fix in 2017

1. Brushing right after acidic meal or drink

Did you know that we lose some minerals after any acidic drink or food. You should wait at least 30 minutes after your meal to brush your teeth. Sugerless gum can help buffering the pH and help in restoring the minerals back. Check our guide on acidic food to avoid and to find a list of common acidic food and drinks.

The tooth covered by the enamel. Enamel is extremely saturated with minerals, which is the main ingredient. When there is acidic exposure, minerals are lost and are slowly recovered by the majestic effect of the saliva and some foods. the process can be disrupted if a toothbrush is used before the minerals are back.

Using the same toothbrush for too long

The American dental Association and the Canadian dental Association recommend replacing the tooth brush every 3 month. Bristles get fatigue and become less effective.

Many people think that its safe to use the same toothbrush over and over again. When scientists study the effect of using the toothbrush for too long, they found that the bristles tend to bend, resulting in less effective brushing. Therefore, changing the toothbrush will guarantee proper brushing and cleaner teeth.

Using a hard tooth brush

Are you still buying hard toothbrush? then stop. According to a recent article in the Journal of Clinical periodontology (the science of gum disease), using a hard tooth brush may result in gum recession (migration of the gum line) or gum lesions. Furthermore, the article has studied the effect of using the hard bristles on the gums and concluded that it may result in “traumatic” outcome.

The same applies on the toothpaste. Toothpastes that promises whitening, deeper elimination of stains are rich with silica particles that are aggressive and hard on the teeth. Combining a hard tooth brush with aggressive toothpaste will result in damaging the gums and the teeth. Many people may complain of sensitivity as a result.

Not brushing long enough

Are you wondering how long you should brush your teeth. The answer is simple, either divide the mouth into segments and spent at least 10 second per segment or brush at least 2 minutes.

Too long? Nooo. Think about it! how many times we eat candy, fruits, chocolate, sweet drinks a day? Keeping the teeth clean and maintaining them clean is essential to prevent dental cavities and dental problems

Brushing improperly

There are many techniques recommended for brushing the teeth. Please check the guideline on brushing and flossing provided by the Canadian Dental Association. We have put together a nice article on brushing properly.

Step 1
Brush at a 45 degree angle to your teeth. Direct the bristles to where your gums and teeth meet. Use a gentle, circular, massaging motion, up and down. Don’t scrub. Gums that recede visibly are often a result of years of brushing too hard.

Step 2
Make sure you clean every tooth and every surface.

Step 3
Remember the watch, at least 2 minutes

Step 4
Change your usual brushing pattern. Most people brush their teeth the same way all the time. We don’t have perfect teeth. You have to follow the patterns of the teeth.

Step 5
Use a soft brush with rounded bristles. The right toothbrush cleans better. Choose a size and shape that allow you to reach all the way to your back teeth.

Storing your brush improperly

When you’re done brushing, make sure you store the brush dry. Moisture can help the germs to grow. Also, keep it upright and separate from other toothbrushes. Open cup/container is recommended.