Teeth-cleaning mistakes

You know the drill when it comes to keeping your teeth and gums healthy: Brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to maintain good oral hygiene. This helps to prevent plaque, a sticky white film that forms on teeth and can contain bacteria. Plaque build-up can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.
Although you may be an avid tooth brusher and flosser, there are still errors you’re probably making with your oral care. Keep your teeth clean and healthy by avoiding these 12 common teeth-cleaning mistakes that make dentists cringe.
You only brush once a day

Brushing your teeth only once a day is a habit that dentists aren’t that happy about. It can leave plaque at the gumline causing inflammation, says dentist Michael Kleinman. “When it gets advanced, the tissue starts to peel away from the root of the tooth, the gum and bone get infected and you can lose teeth.” Avoid this by brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush.
You ignore your gums

If you don’t gently brush your gums too, you may increase your risk for tooth loss, Dr Kleinman explains. Inflammation along your gumline can trigger the process that can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. (The keyword here is gentle – too much pressure may damage your gums.)
Check out these 10 signs of gum disease you may be ignoring.