Dennis Morehart, DDS

Wednesday, May 3, 2017

A Guide to How Not to Brush Teeth

We are sure by now that you know how to brush your teeth and do a good job. But are you aware that you can actually brush your teeth wrong and do damage? Dr. Dennis Morehart, DDS of Enid, OK wants his patients to understand great dental care to keep teeth healthy. Keep reading to learn what not to do when brushing!

Brushing After Eating
While it definitely helps keep your mouth clean, brushing after eating can also do damage. There are acids in our food that soften our enamel. Therefore, you should wait at least thirty minutes so your enamel has time to re-harden. Otherwise, you may brush away the softened enamel and cause worn-down teeth which leads to cavities and sensitivity. If you are concerned about acid, rinse out your mouth with water after consuming very acidic foods. After thirty minutes, it is good to give your mouth a good scrubbing.

Brushing Too Hard
Another common way to wear down enamel is by brushing too hard. To remove plaque, all you need to do is brush with a light touch and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Stiff bristles or too much force can wear down enamel and irritate gum tissue. Worn down enamel can lead to an increased risk of cavities, sensitivity, and cosmetic issues. Irritated gums can lead to gum recession and sensitivity.

Keep these tips in mind to make sure you are not overdoing it! To schedule your next cleaning and examination with Dr. Dennis Morehart, DDS, call our Enid, OK dental practice or visit our website, www.eniddentalcare.com.

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