Whether we recognize them or not, we all have habits which eventually shape our routines. We are so accustomed to hearing particular pieces of advice that these things quickly become staples in our day-to-day lives— eat plenty of citrus fruits, don’t forget to use mouthwash, and brush your teeth with an electric toothbrush after every meal, for example.
While these words of wisdom aren’t necessarily bad advice, they do come with caveats. In some cases, it may be better to cut particular habits from your oral care regimen rather than to add more and more steps to a routine that’s already perfect for your teeth and gums.
We’ve chosen five frequent habits which you may want to consider modifying or removing altogether from your daily routine.
1. Toss the Hard-Bristled Toothbrush
Some may be fooled into thinking that a toothbrush with sturdier bristles will do a more thorough job of removing plaque and perform better when pitted against buildup or stubborn food particles. However, a firm-bristled toothbrush may actually do more harm than good by irritating the gums or even contributing to sensitive teeth. Try a soft-bristled toothbrush instead.
2. Take It Easy with Vitamin C
The high concentration of vitamin C found in citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes may serve as motivation to consume them in large quantities. Even when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet, everything is better in moderation, especially since highly acidic citrus fruits can erode enamel and irritate existing oral sores or injuries.
3. Avoid Overbrushing
Electric toothbrushes are all the rage these days, and for good reason! It’s likely that your dentist and dental hygienist have even suggested the use of electric toothbrushes for day-to-day oral care, but brushing with an electric toothbrush requires a different strategy than using a manual brush. Instead of brushing actively, simply glide the bristles across your teeth. Brushing along with the rotating bristles can result in overbrushing that puts you at risk for enamel damage and gum disease.
4. Reconsider Mouthwash
Reconsider your use of mouthwash, particularly if you are relying on it to keep your mouth and gums clean. According to Lance Vernon, a doctor of dental medicine and professor at Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine, using mouthwash is only fractionally effective when compared to brushing and flossing—in fact, brushing for only five seconds is preferable to a longer swish of mouth rinse.
If you do choose to supplement your oral healthcare routine with mouthwash, double-check the ingredients. Most mouthwashes rely on the key ingredient alcohol, but some cosmetic dentists claim that this high concentration of alcohol can dry out your teeth and contribute to painful oral sensitivity.
5. Don’t Whiten Your Teeth Too Much
For some people, teeth bleaching is just as much a part of their regular routine as brushing and flossing. While there are many safe ways to whiten your teeth, beware of making it a habit. Excessive whitening may cause side effects such as increased sensitivity and gum irritation. You can schedule professional and recommended teeth whitening treatments with Dr. Naysan from Bedford Dental Group.
Remember, always address any questions or concerns by speaking to a professional, and let your dentist know about any major changes you have made or plan to make to your dental health routine.