Seven ways you may be destroying your teeth

Too much of a good thing can sometimes be damaging, especially when it comes to oral health. Did you know you can actually brush too much or too hard, or rinse too much, or floss too hard? Yes, these things may be damaging you teeth.

1. Brushing too hard – Some people think that if you brush harder the cleaner your mouth and teeth get. This can’t be any further from the truth. Aggressive brushing can cause permanent gum tissue damage and also wear down the enamel.
2. Brushing with abrasive toothpaste – Some toothpastes are too abrasive for your teeth and gums. Remember your teeth and gums have to last a long time and constantly rubbing abrasive material on them isn’t going to help. You can tell you’re wearing away enamel or damaging gums if you start to feel discomfort or pain. Talk to you a dentist if this happens.
3. Rinsing too much – Rinsing 20 times a day really doesn’t do much of anything as far as good oral health. All you need to do is rinse after you eat or dring sugary drinks.
4. Hard flossing – Flossing should be a gentle way to clean the hard-to-reach areas of your teeth. Using floss with excessive motions can lead to cutting the gums. These cuts can accumulate harmful germs and bacteria.
5. Forcing a small brush between teeth – Flossing is every effective, however, some people use small inter-dental brushes. Usually, though, there isn’t enough space for the brush. Don’t force in then because this can cause permanent gum loss or tooth breakage.
6. Acidic foods – Lozenges, candy or medication can lead to permanent acid damage to your teeth gums and bone. Even small baby aspirin has enough acid to damage teeth
7. Sucking on lemons – Well, this may not happen often, but if you’re sucking on lemons, STOP! The low pH of the lemon can destroy your teeth.

It’s important to make sure you take care of your teeth, and yes, too much of a good thing can be bad. The key is to create healthy oral hygiene habits without overdoing it. Remember, moderation is the key to a healthy smile and good oral health.