When it comes to your oral health, prevention through good oral hygiene habits is the best thing you can do for your teeth and gums. While everyone knows they should brush and floss regularly, you could be making other dental mistakes that prevent your mouth from being as healthy as it could be.

1. Brushing Too Infrequently

While brushing your teeth about an hour after every time you eat or drink is ideal, it isn't a practical solution for most people. It's important to brush and floss at least twice a day - in the morning and before you go to bed.

Nighttime brushing is particularly important to fight tooth decay, gingivitis, and other dental health problems. Your teeth have a lot of food particles and bacteria on them at the end of the day, and if you fail to brush before bed, the bacteria will feed on the particles and contribute to tooth decay.

Saliva normally helps wash your teeth and cuts down on harmful bacteria. But when you're asleep your body doesn't produce as much saliva. So people who fall asleep before brushing their teeth increase their risk of cavities and other dental problems.

2. Brushing Too Quickly

Many people don't spend enough time brushing their teeth, and this common mistake can lead to serious plaque and tartar buildup. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommend that you brush your teeth twice a day for at least two full minutes, but many people only spend an average of 45 seconds on each brushing session.

Set a timer for two minutes each time you brush to ensure you spend enough time brushing your teeth, gums, and tongue.

3. Brushing Too Hard

While you might feel like your teeth will get cleaner if you scrub hard and quickly while you brush, it's best to use a much softer touch. When you use too much pressure, the enamel on your teeth can start to wear away, and your gums might start receding.

To protect your teeth, brush with a lighter touch - you shouldn't hear loud scrubbing noises when you brush your teeth.

Some electric toothbrushes have pressure sensors that will indicate when you brush too hard if you struggle to use a gentler touch.

4. Using the Wrong Toothbrush

Not all toothbrushes are created equal. Most people should use a toothbrush with soft bristles, so consider softer bristles the next time you replace your toothbrush if you typically choose a brush with medium or hard bristles. Also, look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance when choosing a toothbrush.

Additionally, the best toothbrush is a newer one. Bacteria can build up on your toothbrush and the bristles get worn down and damaged over time. Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every couple of months. If you've been sick, replace your toothbrush after you're no longer contagious.

5. Flossing Incorrectly or Not at All

You should floss at least once a day to clean the spaces between your teeth where your toothbrush bristles can't easily reach. However, keep in mind that you shouldn't substitute mouthwash, toothpicks, or floss picks for traditional flossing.

When you floss, don't skip any of your teeth. Be gentle when you push the floss between your teeth. Don't snap it against your gums. Instead, push the floss back and forth gently against the surface of the tooth in a C shape to clean the space thoroughly.

Schedule visits with your dentist every six months to check your teeth and gums for signs of problems and get a professional cleaning. The University Dental P.A. team serves patients of all ages in the greater Columbia, South Carolina area. Contact us today to book an appointment.