3 Habits That Destroy Your Smile
According to a spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry there are a few things that you are doing that are destroying your teeth. Read on to find out what you could be doing that harms your teeth.
- Brushing too soon after eating- Consuming acidic foods and beverages is part of everyone’s diet. Whether it is a citrus fruit or a glass of wine, these foods contain a lot of acid, which can erode enamel. If you brush too soon after eating these types of acidic foods you can cause more damage. Brushing too soon with those additional acids on your teeth means that you are brushing the acid into your teeth. Instead, rinse your mouth with water and wait 30 minutes before brushing.
- Not replacing your toothbrush often enough- You are supposed to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, but many of us forget to change our brushes. Forgetting to replace your brush is a big problem because if overused it becomes ineffective. If you continue use with an old toothbrush, the excess bacteria could cause infections and other oral health issues. Make sure to replace your brush every three to four months and if you have had a cold.
- Using a hard-bristled toothbrush- If you are an aggressive brusher then you should opt for a soft-bristled brush. A hard-bristled brush coupled with hard brushing can lead to gum problems. Try a soft-bristled brush to save any damage to your gums and brush softly in a circular motion. Ask your dentist about the best brushing practices for your mouth.
Try to avoid these habits to keep your teeth and gums healthy.