The majority believe brushing twice a day will keep their smile healthy. However, what you do on a day-to-day basis can either hurt or help your teeth. The Best Dentist Oakleigh believes that most oral health problems are preventable. Patients do not even realise they are making habits that create long-term issues. If you wish to prevent dental pain and expensive procedures, it is time to break some habits.

The Best Dentist Oakleigh sees common patterns that lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and damaged enamel. Making small changes can keep your teeth and gums healthier for years.

Brushing Too Hard

You may believe brushing harder means cleaner teeth, but that's not true. Brushing with too much force wears down the protective enamel. It also pushes your gums back and exposes sensitive roots.

Get a soft-bristled toothbrush, and use it for gentle circular strokes at a 45-degree angle to the surface. Brush two minutes twice a day. Your Dentist Oakleigh will demonstrate the correct brushing technique. Tooth enamel cannot be replaced, so avoid causing damage.

Avoid Flossing

Flossing adds one more task to your busy schedule, but just like brushing, it is very important. Food debris cannot be removed from the front, back, and chewing surfaces of your teeth with a toothbrush. The sides, where food gets caught, remain dirty without flossing.

Floss takes out food and plaque particles between teeth. If left, these will lead to gum infections and cavities. Floss daily as a habit. Take gentle motions up and down. Don't snap the floss. Request your Dentist Oakleigh to show you how to do it if unsure. Omitting flossing may lead to bad breath and swollen gums.

Teeth as Tools

You might have been using your teeth to rip open packaging, pick up things, or open bottles. All these habits are likely to result in agonizing dental emergencies. Teeth are not for doing jobs.

Using your teeth as tools makes them weak. It results in chips, cracks, or even the loss of the tooth. Always use scissors or the correct tools. The Best Dentist Oakleigh frequently deals with patients who have cracked molars or chipped incisors. Show your teeth the respect they deserve and avoid unnecessary harm.

Snacking All Day

Constant snacking is one of the main causes of tooth decay. Every time you eat, acids are created in your mouth. These remain in your mouth for 20-30 minutes and erode your enamel. When you snack continuously, your teeth are continuously exposed to acid.

Sticky foods such as lollies, chips, and dried fruit cling to your teeth. Sweet drinks and fruit juices worsen the problem. Attempt to have snacks no more than once or twice daily. Healthy foods may contain raw fruits, vegetables, cheese, or unsweetened yogurt. Water will wash out the food particles from the mouth after every meal. Your Dentist Oakleigh can suggest a fluoride mouthwash as additional protection.

Postponing Dental Visits

Others skip going to the dentist until they are in pain. Pain may mean the issue has already progressed. Regular visits catch problems early. Your dentist will be able to remove plaque buildup and diagnose cavities, infections, or gum disease before they progress.

Go to your dentist every six months. If you have certain problems, you might need to visit more frequently. X-rays and professional cleaning are included in regular check-ups. The Best Dentist Oakleigh can advise you on tailored care according to your dental history.

You don't have to make drastic changes to maintain your oral health. Simply quit these bad habits. Small steps today can avoid costly treatments tomorrow. If you need professional guidance, go to the Best Dentist Oakleigh for a comprehensive check-up and customized advice.