Dental Health Facts You Need To Know From A Dentist in San Jose

Ask any dentist in San Jose about patient oral health habits and you will find the average person brushes and flosses his teeth each day, visits the dentist a couple times per year and doesn't think much of his or her oral health beyond that. Though oral health might not be at the forefront of your mind, it certainly can't hurt to learn some helpful dental health facts. Here is a look at some interesting dental facts every patient should know.

Most People Brush Their Teeth too Aggressively

A surprising number of people brush their teeth with aggression. This is partially due to the fact that the mind tends to wander when brushing the teeth. Try to focus on your teeth, tongue, and gums when cleaning your mouth. Your oral health care routine is just as important as exercise, eating healthy and other elements of well-being. Maintain a focus on cleaning your mouth and you won't be as likely to brush with vigor. The problem with applying an abundance of pressure when brushing is it can lead to gums that bleed, skin that recedes around the teeth and even considerable pain in the tissues surrounding the teeth.

Covering Your Toothbrush is a Mistake

Plenty of people cover their toothbrush with a cap, a small paper cup or another item after using it. This is a mistake. If you cover your toothbrush after using it, it is time to toss that cap and let your toothbrush breathe. Any type of cover over your toothbrush will lead to trapped moisture that allows bacteria to grow.

Bleeding Gums is Always a Red Flag

If you have bleeding gums, do not shrug it off as something that automatically happens when brushing and flossing. It did not happen when you were a child and it should not be happening today. The bottom line is bleeding gums are a major problem that requires attention from an experienced dentist. If you fail to address bleeding gums, it could easily lead to tooth loss. Yet plenty of those who have bleeding gums ignore them, assuming the problem will go away. Don't do this to yourself! Meet with your dentist in San Jose for an oral health evaluation as soon as you notice blood coming from your gums.

Some People are Allergic to Certain Types of Toothpaste

This is quite the interesting fact. Toothpaste sensitivities and allergies are on the rise. Yet the signs of an allergic reaction to toothpaste are often difficult to spot as the allergic reaction occurs in the mouth. The most common sign of an allergy to a specific type of toothpaste is subtle burns along the interior of the cheeks and a peeling of the skin along the mouth surface. If you have such sensitivities, consider a natural brand of toothpaste without chemicals. Your dentist in San Jose can help you select the best toothpaste for your unique oral health and sensitivities.

Toothbrushes Should be Replaced Frequently

The average person uses his or her toothbrush for a year or longer. This is a mistake! You should replace your toothbrush after each instance of a cold, flu or other infection. Otherwise, microbes will entrench themselves along the bristles of the toothbrush and possibly cause another infection. In general, toothbrushes should be replaced every three months.

For more information call Dennis Baik, DDS at (408) 676-5321.