As a young mother, I was reasonably ignorant when raising my firstborn. My biggest regret is that I didn't help her take better care of her teeth. Like many people, I didn't realise the importance of baby teeth, resulting in long-term dental problems. Recently, my daughter got married and some of my tears were for the beautiful, glistening smile she presented to the cameras. Ever since I realised the dental damage I had caused, I had been saving for my daughter to have cosmetic dentistry. The results are remarkable. During the course of this journey, I have learnt a lot about caring for children's teeth and corrective procedures that can be undertaken when issues arise. I am sure many of you would be interested in the latest knowledge and techniques that are available to prevent and repair dental complications. I'm Margret Devlin - thanks for visiting.
No matter the condition of your teeth and gums, you typically want to see your dentist every year for a good check-up and exam, or however often he or she recommends. However, the way you take care of your teeth can actually hurt your teeth and gums; in turn, you may need to see the dentist more often and be in need of dental work you would otherwise avoid. Note a few common mistakes many people make with their oral hygiene so you can avoid them, and discuss these with your dentist as needed.
1. Not brushing everything
When you brush your teeth, do you also brush your tongue and the inside of your mouth and gums? Your tongue can hold more germs and bacteria than any other part of your mouth, as can the inside of your cheek and underside of the gums. Don't rely on rinses alone to get these areas but gently run your toothbrush over the entire inside of your mouth as well as your tongue for a thorough clean, every time you brush.
2. Not brushing long enough
Running your toothbrush over your teeth very quickly is better than not brushing at all, but can't be considered a thorough clean. Your toothbrush needs time to get stubborn stains and to reach in between teeth to remove food particles. Brushing also stimulates the gums and blood circulation in the mouth, and blood is a healing agent that can help to repair and restore your teeth and gums, and keep your mouth healthy. If your mouth still feels sticky and your breath is still not fresh after a brushing, you may not need to switch products but may need to simply spend more time with your toothbrush.
3. Using harsh and homemade products
While a thorough brushing is good for your teeth, using harsh products such as baking soda, peroxide, rubbing alcohol, dental picks, and even homemade toothpastes can mean causing damage to the enamel of your teeth. Many of these products also dry the inside of your mouth; this can be damaging, as you need a good supply of saliva to help rinse away food particles and germs. While it may be tempting to make up your own toothpaste with natural ingredients or just use baking soda, it may also be safer to use what is commercially available or recommended by your dentist so you're not doing damage to your teeth.
Share28 November 2016
