A typical oral hygiene routine would involve brushing the teeth twice a day, flossing, swirling around mouthwash, and routine dental check-ups. Most people are conscious of the importance of a good oral hygiene routine.
Three in four adults even admit that oral hygiene is closely connected to mental health. Then, why are dental problems still increasing in our country? Probably because a fixed oral care routine is not enough.
It is simply the skeletal structure that will only work when certain things are practiced. In this article, we will discuss three reasons why your oral hygiene routine may be doing more harm than good.
Using Chemical-Laden Products
Ah! The scare of chemicals looms everywhere untamed. The Earth is being pushed beyond its threshold for chemical pollution. Thousands of chemicals circulate our ecosystem and their numbers only seem to rise.
A report by Deloitte stated the findings of the American Chemistry Council (ACC). According to it, worldwide chemical production was expected to rise by 3.4% in 2024, and further still by 3.5% in 2025.
This percentage of increase was just 0.3% in 2023. Is the world moving backward? It seems like it but your oral hygiene does not have to share the same fate. Do oral care products have harmful chemicals?
Yes, plenty of them like benzoic acid, titanium dioxide, triclosan, and even PFAS. The one in the far latter end is perhaps exceptionally dangerous because it is also ubiquitous. PFAS or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances is a group of over 12,000 chemicals sharing a carbon-fluorine bond.
They are the same chemicals used in producing Class B firefighting foam or Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF). This foam’s exposure is linked to cancer, as alleged by firefighters who have filed a lawsuit.
According to TruLaw, manufacturers were aware of the risks involved with PFAS but took no steps to make AFFF safer. Thousands of personal injury and water contamination cases have been filed against PFAS producers.
The water contamination cases have been settled. As for the personal injury AFFF lawsuit, Navy service members and firefighters are still awaiting justice. Plaintiff attorneys are expecting to see much progress in the upcoming months.
Most importantly, where are PFAS used in oral care products? They form the waxy or non-stick coating of dental floss. This does not mean you should stop flossing. Instead, invest in non-toxic alternatives that use coconut or tea tree oils.
Similarly, avoid other products with harmful chemicals in them. Be it toothpaste, mouthwash, or anything else, you can find fluoride-free safe alternatives. Chemical-laden oral care products can cause issues like periodontal inflammation and tissue damage, so replace them if possible. For overall wellness, consider using topical magnesium spray, which can help support muscle relaxation and reduce stress, contributing to better health and oral hygiene.
Aggressive Brushing
How much force do you use to brush your pearly whites? Some people live by the misconception that the greater the force, the better will be the results.
This notion does not work in the area of oral hygiene. If you brush your teeth too hard or with rigorous force, you may be doing them more harm than good. The same goes for brushing gently but with a toothbrush that has hard bristles.
According to this dentist who does dentures in Las Vegas NV, aggressive brushing can lead to enamel erosion and gum recession, making your teeth more sensitive and vulnerable to cavities. Switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush and using gentle, circular motions can help protect your teeth and gums while effectively removing plaque
Such a practice can lead to several dental issues. Let’s look at some of them.
- Enamel erosion – The first scare associated with brushing teeth aggressively is enamel erosion. The enamel forms the hard outer layer that covers the dentin and pulp underneath. Too much force can corrode this layer, increasing the risk of tooth decay and bacterial infection.
- Gum recession – Aggressive brushing pushes the gums away from the teeth. This exposes the roots, causing sensitivity issues, pain, and tooth loss in severe cases.
- Uneven edges – It can seem odd but rigorous brushing can cause the teeth edges to corrode. This will give a more uneven look to them.
- Discoloration – The enamel layer is usually white to a little off-white. However, the dentin underneath is more yellowish-white in color. If aggressive brushing erodes the enamel, it will also lead to teeth discoloration.
The only way to avoid the woes associated with aggressive brushing is to stop the practice. Hold the toothbrush with your fingers instead of having it gripped in the wrist. This will help you avoid too much pressure while brushing.
Also, invest in a soft-bristled toothbrush, preferably made of natural materials. Two good examples are bamboo fibers and plant-based nylon. For expert advice on maintaining your smile, consider consulting the best cosmetic dentist Scottsdale has to offer.
Not Replacing Products promptly
When was the last time you changed your toothbrush or tongue cleaner? In case you’re unsure, it is probably time to throw that ‘old reliable’ away.
In an interview with a UCLA dentist, CNBC found that toothbrushes are meant to be replaced every three months. Those who brush their teeth aggressively may need a replacement sooner than that.
Remember that the best option still is to not brush your teeth aggressively. Coming to our main point, not replacing your oral hygiene products on time can have serious consequences in the long run.
There are at least three compelling reasons to change your toothbrush and tongue cleaner often.
- You won’t be able to thoroughly clean your teeth unless you replace products often.
- The same old products will leave behind an alarming amount of plaque which may later turn into tartar.
- Using the same products for long periods can lead to infection within the mouth.
Oral care products stay in their best shape when they’re brand new. With time, they tend to lose their effectiveness. So, keep the benchmark as three months and replace your cleaners in a timely manner.
Has this article shown you any loopholes in your oral hygiene routine? If yes, then implement three simple practices and change your oral care rituals forever.
