{"id":397,"date":"2021-08-01T16:52:00","date_gmt":"2021-08-01T16:52:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.richardfossumdds.com\/blog\/?p=397"},"modified":"2021-09-01T16:55:09","modified_gmt":"2021-09-01T16:55:09","slug":"leading-dentist-in-temple","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.richardfossumdds.com\/blog\/leading-dentist-in-temple\/","title":{"rendered":"Skipping These 5 Oral Hygiene Practices Could be Hurting You!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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You are well aware of the importance of brushing your teeth daily. After all, you\u2019ve been hearing about the threat of cavity development since you were a child. There are still many other ways you can protect your teeth and gums, though \u2013 some you may be familiar with but aren\u2019t following. As you continue reading, your dentist in Temple lists 5 key oral hygiene practices that will help prevent<\/a> problems down the road!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

#1 \u2013 Brushing at Least Two Times a Day<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You already brush your teeth, but are you cleaning them frequently enough? It\u2019s of the utmost importance to brush at least two times a day \u2013 in the morning and before going to bed. Numerous bacteria already gather in your mouth at night while you sleep. By brushing beforehand, you can at least remove any leftover food and beverage particles that could attract even more bacteria. This provides extra protection from plaque forming and leading to tooth decay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

#2 \u2013 Using the Right Type of Toothbrush<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While it may seem like a more effective method, using a toothbrush with hard bristles won\u2019t get your teeth any cleaner. In fact, it could lead to enamel damage. Instead, look for a toothbrush with soft bristles that fit easily inside your mouth. This is one of the oral hygiene best practices that will allow you to properly clean without damaging the surface of your teeth and gums.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

#3 \u2013 Flossing Regularly<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cleaning with dental floss is just as important as toothbrushing. It offers an additional level of cleanliness that a toothbrush can\u2019t provide. The malleable nature of floss allows it to get into the tight spaces between your teeth. By flossing on a regular basis, you can better protect yourself from harmful plaque development that could affect your oral and overall health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

#4 \u2013 Replacing Your Toothbrush When Needed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Generally, you should replace your toothbrush every 60 to 90 days. However, if you\u2019ve been sick, you should immediately discard it so you can prevent reinfection. Also, be on the lookout for frayed or irregular bristles; these are signs that it\u2019s time for a switch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

#5 \u2013 Using the Right Techniques When Cleaning<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, having the best intentions isn\u2019t enough. It\u2019s important to use the right technique when cleaning your teeth to avoid enamel damage and gum injury. Here are simple tips to follow when performing your at-home dental care:<\/p>\n\n\n\n