How to get stronger teeth and a better smile
Here are some of the latest clues will clue you in on where you could be going wrong :
Multitasking while you brush
Every minute in the morning feels precious, so it’s tempting to brush your teeth in the shower or while scrolling through your Twitter feed . It is best to be in front of a mirror, over the sink; you can be sure to hit all the surfaces of your teeth, and you’ll do a more thorough job when you’re not distracted.
Over cleaning your toothbrush
Thinking about disinfecting your toothbrush by running it through the dishwasher or zapping it in the microwave? Think again: According to the CDC, there is no evidence that any one has ever become sick from their own toothbrush. These drastic cleaning measures can actually damage your toothbrush and decrease the efficacy. Just rinse your toothbrush with regular tap water ,let air dry & store your brush upright where it is not touching anyone else's.
Using social media as your dentist
The web is loaded with DYI dental tips. Many of these tips may be harmful rather than helpful to your teeth and surrounding structures! It is recommended that you use ADA-approved products that have been tested.
Avoiding Dental Radiographs (x-rays)
Dental radiographs (X-rays) are important because not all conditions can be identified with a visual exam. Bitewing x-rays (cavity detecting ) are recommended for your dentist to detect caries (decay) between teeth, Panoramic x-rays can detect tumors that may found in the jaw, and Full mouth Series are taken to identify bone levels pathologies and caries. If you’re concerned about radiation, talk to your dentist about ways to minimize the number of x-rays you get.
Storing your wet toothbrush in a travel case
It's important to store your toothbrush in a sanitary place in your suitcase & equally important to remove it once you unpack. Keeping your toothbrush in an enclosed environment keeps it moist which breads bacteria. No stand-up holder in your hotel room? Just use a cup for drinking water, that’ll do just fine.
Hanging on to that tongue or lip piercing
In today's society, self expression can take the form of a tongue barbell or lip ring which can be harmful to your teeth as well as your gingiva (gums.) Tongue & teeth piercings have shown problems with gum recession, infections and fractured teeth, all which can be expensive to treat, Had your piercing for ages with no trouble, you say? Just wait: Studies have shown that your risk of dental problems from tongue and lip piercings gets worse the longer you have them.
Drinking apple cider vinegar
Many Hollywood celebrities & natural health experts claim drinking unfiltered apple-cider vinegar (ACV) can have near-miraculous effects in your insides, Research doesn’t support those claims. Dentists are sure of one thing: The acetic acid in the vinegar is terrible since it erodes tooth enamel.
Ditching your retainer
If you once had braces, whether as a teen or as an adult, it’s smart to keep wearing your retainer for as long as your orthodontist recommends—which may mean several nights a week, FOREVER ! These retainers keep those teeth in line for good. For those who have a fixed retainer, be sure to it clean since they can be plaque traps.
Brushing right after your morning OJ
Like to start your day with a glass of orange juice—or lemon water? Brushing right afterward can wear away your enamel. The acidic environment weakens the teeth enamel and erosion can occur during this vulnerable period. To prevent this, wait 30 minutes before brushing. (this also applies after drinking your morning coffee or tea) As a side note: this also true with vomiting, this is acidic , be sure to rinse after and wait to brush for 30 minutes.
Ignoring your daily (or nightly) grind.
While mild bruxism (grinding) or clenching —might not seem like a big deal, severe cases can lead to everything from chipped and worn teeth to headaches, TMJ (jaw trouble). Since most people are unaware that they grind their teeth at night (nocturnal bruxism). Common signs are chipped or worn teeth, jaw soreness or a dull, constant headache. Your dentist are usually the ones that notice these signs & recommend fabricating an occlusal (mouth) guard to protect your teeth from the damaging forces that is brought on by this habit.
Smoking
We all know how bad smoking is bad for you heart & lungs. Besides halitosis (bad breath) & stained teeth, smoking is also one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of periodontal (gum)disease. Worse yet, smoking can also lower your chances for successful treatment if you’ve already have periodontal (gum) disease. Nicotine compromises your body’s ability to fight infection & the smoke which is an irritant, can decreases your healing capacities post extractions and placements of implants.
Reaching for the toothpick
Even though a toothpick is good for quick removal of food particles ,the truth is that wooden toothpicks are poor substitutes for dental floss: They can splinter and break, and using them too aggressively can cause damage to sensitive gingival (gum )tissue. Notching tooth structures from use over a long period of time has also been seen.
Skipping dental appointments
Most people have dental anxiety ! By maintaining routine dental visits (6,4 or 3 month recare visits) you are less likely to have problems. Waiting a long period of time between visits or waiting for it to hurt may lead to many and expensive dental treatments . Today, dentists employ everything from serene, spa-like settings to animal-assisted therapy (that is, a gentle dog who sits beside you at your appointment) to alleviate patient anxiety & discomfort.
Going overboard with bleach
This should be a no- brainer ; Over bleaching can dehydrate your teeth weakening the enamel and may even cause sensitivity by exposing the dentin (layer below the enamel), Unfortunately little is known about the long-term effects of whitening, but the bottom line is that you should consult your dentist— on which products are safe. Remember moderation is best!
Not drinking enough water
If your part of the country fluoridates its water , The simple act of sipping tap water can help strengthen your teeth. Some bottled waters have fluoride, and some don’t; check the ingredients. It is also recommended to swish with a drinking water after you eat (if a toothbrush is not available) to rinse accumulated sugars and acids from your teeth.
Skimping on calcium & vitamin D
Minerals & vitamins are building blocks for both teeth & bones. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. adult women need 1,000-1,200 milligrams of calcium and 400-1000 IU (international units) of vitamin D /day from foods, supplements or sunlight . Consult your GP 7 Dentist on your nutrient needs & support to your teeth.
Getting addicted to juicing
Beware- Juicing , whether homemade or bottled can be detrimental to your teeth. Even though they may be packed with vitamins & other nutrients, these juices bathe your mouth with acids (ie-lemon juice) to high levels of sugars (fructose ). To minimize their damage to your teeth: rinse with water after acidic juices, and be sure to brush 30 minutes after you consume your drinks to protect your teeth from all that acid and sugar.
Using a toothbrush that is too hard
Hard- bristle brushes are tough on not only on your teeth but your gingiva (gums) Harder bristles can erode your enamel and cause gingival (gum) recession. Ouch! Believe it or not, softer bristles are more flexible removing plaque better than harder bristles without causing as much damage when brushing correctly.
Reaching for the wrong mouth rinse
There are several mouthwashes to choose from. Cosmetic rinses, for example, will merely control bad breath and leave you with a pleasant taste in your mouth. Therapeutic rinses with ingredients like antimicrobial agents and fluoride, on the other hand, can actually help reduce gingivitis, cavities, plaque, and bad breath. (Reminder: Fluoride rinses should not be used for those under the age of 6)
Drinking pop (yes,even diet)
FYI: all acidic drinks- regular pop (soda), diet pop, even sport drinks can cause tooth erosion. To help decrease the effects of these acidic & sugary drinks, try to drink these with food and remember to rinse with water after if unable to brush your teeth 30 minutes after consumption. Of course, the best thing to drink is water :)
