The Real Danger of Keeping Your Toothbrush Too Long and Other Common Oral Health Mistakes

If you are like many people, you likely have used a toothbrush well past the amount of time your dentist recommends. It might seem as though it is not a big deal, but keep reading to learn about the true dangers of using a toothbrush too long and other oral health mistakes. Then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 if you would like to make an appointment with a California dentist.

You Should Be Replacing Your Toothbrush More Often Than Every Six Months

Many people assume that they only need to replace their toothbrushes every six months. Why? Because when they visit their dentist for their twice-yearly exam and cleaning, they get a new toothbrush and then assume this is the only toothbrush they will need. The fact is that you should replace your toothbrush every three to four months.

If you choose not to, then you will be dealing with bacterial building up in your toothbrush, which can increase the chance of developing gum disease. Additionally, the bristles will break down over time and can then not clean your teeth as effectively.

Drinking Soda Can Cause More Issues Than You Might Realize

Is there anything wrong with drinking a soda from time to time? Maybe not – but if you reach for a fizzy, sugared drink every time you have a meal, then you might be in trouble. There are a few reasons this is an issue. Most people know that the sugar in soda can cause decay, but that is far from the only issue.

Not only does the sugar cause the teeth to decay, but it also becomes acidic when it combines with your saliva. This can actually result in your teeth being worn down over time. If you are going to drink a soda, use a straw so that the soda will be in direct contact with your teeth for as short of a time as possible.

Using Your Teeth as Tools

You might have become frustrated when trying to open a plastic or paper package in the past and gotten to the point where you rip it open with your teeth. This might seem like not much of a big deal, but it can actually cause issues. It could immediately chip, crack, or even break your tooth. Even if it seems like a situation in which little damage would be done, the pressure on your teeth can be more serious than you realize.

In the long-run, using your teeth as tools can do gradual damage. It is never worth the risk. Just grab an actual tooth so that your teeth can continue doing the one job they were meant to do.