Dentures: Facts, Figures and Friendly Advice for Seniors

Dental Decay: Three Central Tips for Avoiding Brushing Mistakes

17 August 2020

Herman Kim

Poor brushing practices can lead to a range of dental problems. The most common is the risk of tooth decay. This condition involves the wear and softening of the protective enamel of the teeth. This deterioration is caused by acids and even mechanical abrasion. If this form of damage is not adequately managed, the structure of the tooth will degrade further, and a cavity will develop. This could lead to an infection of the pulp and other related complications. Therefore, you must be diligent in promoting good oral care. Here are some critical tips to remember for effective and safe brushing.

Choose Good Supplies

Proper dental care requires the right supplies, so you should evaluate the products on the market and purchase the most appropriate. When selecting a toothbrush, keep in mind that there is a range of shapes, sizes and bristles. Therefore, you must evaluate your needs. Under normal circumstances, the selected product size and shape should match your oral cavity.

For instance, if your mouth is small, your brush should also be compact for optimal back teeth reach. Moreover, you must be keen on the texture. Rough bristles will injure your gums and damage the enamel. Make certain that the selected bristles are relatively soft. Most toothpaste products are suitable for general use, but you can consult your dentist for recommendations.

Evaluate Your Habits

It is advisable to be deliberate when brushing your teeth so that you will avoid bad habits which can cause dental damage. For instance, it is not uncommon for most individuals, including adults, to leave some parts of the oral cavity unclean. You can avoid this problem by dividing the dental features into four quadrants and brushing them for a considerable period of time.

You must not overlook the gums and tongue. Additionally, think about the amount of pressure applied to the teeth. Do not be overly aggressive because this could cause fast enamel degradation and subsequent complications. If you experience sensitivity after brushing, you might need to reduce the pressure. If you cannot, consider investing in an electric toothbrush.

Consider the Timing

Finally, you should think about the timing of brushing your teeth. Poor planning can make your teeth more vulnerable. For instance, failure to brush before bed or eating again before sleeping will make your teeth vulnerable to acid-producing bacteria. Also, brushing immediately after consuming acidic edibles could contribute to faster enamel erosion. Therefore, you should follow your dentist's guidelines on your brushing schedule for ideal results.

To learn more, contact a dentist.

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