10 Bad Habits That May Be Harming Your Oral Health

Most of us are aware of the steps we need to take to maintain good oral health: brush, floss, and rinse. However, despite doing everything we "should" be doing, we nonetheless occasionally develop cavities or gingivitis. 

It turns out that you could be harming your dental health in a few different ways without even being aware of it.

This write-up examines some of the most common oral health mistakes people make and how to avoid them.

Let's get right into it. 

1. You're Still Using A Manual Toothbrush 

It's time to switch if you're still using a traditional toothbrush, especially if you have braces.

A soft-bristled electric toothbrush, which provides the necessary movement and cleaning force, is the safest alternative.

Of course, there are many other electric toothbrush options available, so you'll need to conduct your research to identify the one that you believe will meet your needs at an affordable price.

However, there are affordable choices available, so you don't have to get an extremely pricey one.

2. You Never Replace Your Toothbrush

Knowing when to replace your toothbrush with a fresh one is just as crucial as brushing frequently and correctly.

You need an excellent brush that isn't damaged or past its prime if you want to maintain your teeth clean and healthy.

Of course, the same is true of electric toothbrushes. Don't use replaceable heads for any longer than necessary; they are supposed to be changed.

In general, it's advised that you swap them out every three months or so.

3. You Neglect Your Tongue

Protecting yourself from the possibility of plaque is one of your most significant oral health objectives.

When this harmful chemical is allowed to accumulate, it can lead to additional, more severe tooth and oral health issues.

Plaque can accumulate on your tongue, which is essential to know because it can affect more than just your teeth and gums.

You should carefully wash your tongue just like you would your teeth to prevent it from happening. Additionally, tongue scrapers are readily available and reasonably priced.

This will fight the plaque and stop accumulation.

4. You Don't Drink Enough Water

Drinking more water each day is a piece of advice that’ll never steer you wrong. 

Everybody needs to be hydrated, and we should all make an effort to consume as much water as we require during the day.

However, not everyone is aware that drinking plenty of water contributes to maintaining a healthy mouth and teeth.

Sugars and other potentially harmful substances can be washed away.

Additionally, drinking water prevents you from consuming other drinks that are even worse for your mouth and teeth.

5. You Use Toothpicks

Sometimes, doing less is also beneficial for your oral health. One error that many individuals commit is cleaning their teeth with toothpicks.

Although it can sound like a good idea, flossing can accomplish this. Using a toothpick puts you at risk of injuring your gums and leaving holes and spaces for bacteria to colonize.

This is one of the most typical ways gum disease problems can start. 

6. You're Eating Too Much Acidic Or Sugary Food

You should consider your teeth and mouth when choosing what to eat because your diet will undoubtedly affect your oral health.

Avoiding too many foods and beverages that are high in acid and sugar is ideal for your mouth and teeth.

It is recommended to avoid both of those substances because they are both terrible for your mouth.

Of course, that doesn't mean you can't occasionally consume the foods you want but do so in moderation.

7. You're Still Smoking

If you still smoke but would like to stop, you should move forward with that sooner rather than later.

In addition to being detrimental to your health in many other ways, smoking is one of the main contributors to gum disease and tooth loss. It's something that people frequently forget.

8. You're Not Using Mouthwash 

You should try to change your habit of not routinely using mouthwash.

From your perspective, doing so makes a lot of sense and enables you to provide your oral health with an additional layer of protection after brushing and flossing.

If you haven't already, it's something you should think about and focus on.

This step can be simple to overlook, but including it in your daily routine should help it stick for you.

9. You Don't Use The Right Floss

Flossing is an oral health habit that you’ll want to stay on top of. 

It’s easy to overlook and tell yourself that brushing is enough, but flossing can remove the things that brushing doesn’t.

Fortunately, floss is super affordable and you can get it at any pharmacy.

10. Your Toothpaste Doesn't Contain Fluoride 

Unfortunately, the last few years have seen the rise of fluoride-free toothpaste, especially in the natural toothpaste world. 

But don’t be fooled! you need fluoride. If you’re interested in ditching some of the extra chemicals though, there are plenty of natural toothpaste brands that contain fluoride — just be sure to read the label carefully!