When you think about your dental hygiene habits, do you automatically light up, assuming you would receive an A+ or gold start if graded? If so, we are glad to hear it! However, if we were to ask you if you are absolutely certain you’re not accidentally practicing any bad habits that can negatively impact your oral health, can you say you’re sure? If not, protect those excellent efforts you have been making and ensure their success. All it takes is considering some common habits that you might be performing (and that you can easily cut out).
Bad Habit: Reusing Products
When we talk about reusing dental hygiene products, we’re not talking about using your toothbrush on a daily basis. You know that this is its intended purpose (though you shouldn’t use it forever … more on that in a moment). We’re talking about products that need to be thrown out after one use. If you use dental floss, floss picks, or any other one-use items, do dispose of them. Otherwise, you will be re-introducing bacteria into your smile (yes, even after just one use!).
Bad Habit: Sharing Products
It’s tempting to share dental hygiene products with someone you love (particularly a spouse). However, this is never a good idea if that product is entering your mouth and removing plaque. Sharing toothpaste? No problem. Sharing the same strand of dental floss or toothpaste? Avoid it at all costs.
Bad Habit: Using Products For Too Long
About that toothbrush you have been using: It’s safe for your oral health if it is up to four months old. After that point, however, it may become a hotbed of bacteria and the bristles generally too broken down to provide effective care.
