3 Signs Your Oral Hygiene Habits Aren’t Working

You try to take good care of your teeth, but how can you tell if your efforts are working? Your dentist at Innovative Smiles can help you determine whether your oral hygiene habits are sufficient to care for your teeth. Below are some signs that your oral hygiene routines aren’t quite working.

1. Buildup of Plaque and Tartar

Cleaning your teeth should get rid of the sticky residue left on tooth enamel by the food you eat. If you’re not cleaning your teeth sufficiently, some of that sticky residue will remain, even after you brush your teeth.

Over time, this can result in plaque and tartar buildup on your tooth enamel. If your dentist and hygienist are finding a great deal of plaque and tartar on your teeth, this is an indication that your toothbrushing habits need some work. Have your dentist give you a tutorial during your next dental exam and cleaning.

2. Bad Breath

Bad breath can happen when you eat certain foods, but if your breath is routinely bad – even after you brush your teeth – this could be an indication that you have gum disease or cavities. Get a check-up with the dentist to find out if something is going wrong, and if so, what you can do to prevent that from happening in the future.

3. Gum Disease and Cavities

Gum disease and cavities can happen when there’s a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. If your dentist is regularly finding cavities when you come in for a checkup, or if you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, it may be time to change how you’re taking care of your teeth. You may need to brush your teeth more regularly, and possibly see the dentist more often. Your dentist can tell you what the next steps should be.

Time for a Dental Exam? Make An Appointment Today

Your dentist at Innovative Smiles can tell you whether your oral hygiene routines are working. It’s important to see the dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and check up, so if you haven’t seen the dentist in the last six months, make your appointment today.