Yes, you read it right.

This post is actually about tooth brushing mistakes. Why?

Brushing your teeth seems to be a no-brainer. After all, you’ve been doing it since you were a child. It is common knowledge and practice.

However, a recent study on the dental habits of 2,000 Americans reveals that three in 10 millennials brush their teeth only once a day. Shockingly as well, the average millennial is said to “have gone more than two days at a time without brushing their teeth at least once.”

So it seems that even with all the information available to people, something as simple as daily oral care is being ignored or is not taken seriously enough.

But if you love your teeth (or feel that you must), do read on about the common tooth brushing mistakes so you don’t lose any of your pearly whites needlessly.

Tooth brushing mistakes:

• Brushing in circles, which used to be the recommended method, is not the best technique to effectively clean teeth. Instead, the American Dental Association (ADA) prescribes “gently moving the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes.” Brush the front teeth by tilting the brush vertically and using upward and downward strokes. Implement the same to clean the insides of the teeth.
• Simply brushing is not enough. To ensure the fluoride works on the teeth and to get the food debris off the teeth, brush for at least two minutes. Use a timer if you need to or hum a full song to make sure you don’t go below the prescribed timeframe.
• Not flossing is a big no-no. Flossing is a complementary procedure which ensures hard-to-reach areas of the teeth are free from food particles that harbor plaque-causing bacteria.
• Forgetting the tongue. Your tongue is a place where bacteria, which cause tooth decay and bad breath, love to cling. So be sure to give it a couple of scrapes before you finish off, or invest in a tongue scraper.

Additional oral health tips:

• Replace your toothbrush every 2-4 months, or when you see that the bristles are already frayed, to ensure it continues to efficiently clean your teeth.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and ensure you use one that fits the size of your mouth so you can comfortably brush your teeth.
• Brush at least twice daily.
• Limit your intake of high-sugar or starchy foods, and carbonated drinks and fruit juice.
• If you consume anything acidic, drink a glass of water right away or gargle with water to wash away most of the acid. Then brush your teeth after 30 minutes.
• Go for a dental appointment at least twice every year.

If you are looking to schedule a cleaning with a reputable Shreveport Dentist, Dr. K is the man to call. He makes your visit, fun, educational and judgment free. So if you have not seen a dentist in a while, no worries! We will take great care of you.