Is it possible for someone who brushes twice a day to develop a cavity? Unfortunately, it is – in some cases, poor diets make it difficult for people to keep their enamel safe from decay, but in other cases people develop problems because their brushing routine is not as effective as it should be. You may be leaving yourself at risk for problems that require restorative dental work because you are not giving your smile enough attention when you brush, or because of oversights that leave your teeth less clean than you realize. It should be noted that even an effective oral care routine should not replace regular dental cleanings from your hygienist. At our Shrewsbury, MA dental office, patients receive important cleanings as well as detailed evaluations at every preventive dental checkup.
1. Taking Too Little Time To Properly Brush Every Surface Of Every Tooth
If you are not taking at least two minutes to brush your teeth, you are likely giving at least part of your smile too little attention. When people are not thorough about brushing, they can allow tartar deposits to build up. This typically occurs in places that are harder to reach. When tartar deposits form, they will remain until your next cleaning, as brushing and flossing will not be enough to remove them.
2. Not Replacing Their Toothbrush In Time
After approximately three months, you should look for a new toothbrush. The quality of the bristles on your brush can impact the level of cleaning you can provide yourself. When they become worn, it can be difficult for them to reach every area, and fully remove plaque and food debris. If you hold onto the same toothbrush for an extended duration, you are more likely to need a dental filling at your next checkup!
3. Brushing Too Aggressively
In order to make your smile as clean as possible, should you start brushing more forcefully? It is a mistake to assume that more force leads to cleaner teeth. In fact, if you brush aggressively, you can become MORE vulnerable to problems. This is because you can wear down your enamel, making teeth less resistant to the effects of oral bacteria. To further protect yourself against enamel erosion, stick with soft bristle brushes.
Modern Dentistry Of Shrewsbury Can Help You Do A Better Job Protecting Your Smile
Modern Dentistry Of Shrewsbury is proud to help people in and around Shrewsbury, MA take great care of their teeth. While our office is ready to provide dedicated oral health support during your visits, we can also help you maintain your oral health in between appointments by offering tips on smart smile care. Contact us to schedule an appointment by calling our office at (508) 842-8838.
