Maintaining a rock-solid dental hygiene routine is essential to protecting your oral health. But if you follow the wrong dental hygiene advice, you may end up doing more harm than good to your smile.

Take a closer look at the truth behind some of the most common oral hygiene myths.

Myth 1: Brushing Harder Is Better

You may be compelled to scrub your teeth as hard as you can every time you brush, but doing so can damage your teeth. Instead of protecting your teeth, you can wear away tooth enamel and even gum tissue if you brush too hard.

Myth 2: White Teeth Are Always Healthy

It may be your goal to have beautiful white teeth, but it’s important to recognize that even if you do achieve them, that doesn’t mean your oral health is in perfect condition.

In fact, there can be significant issues with pearly white teeth that don’t exist in teeth that may not be as bright on the surface. Make sure you keep an eye out for more indicators of oral health than the shade of your teeth.

Myth 3: Flossing Is Not Necessary

Too many people think that flossing is something that only those who want to be extra thorough should bother with, but the truth is that flossing is just as crucial as regularly brushing your teeth.

There are areas of your mouth that no toothbrush can access, allowing an ideal space for dangerous bacteria to grow. Flossing once a day can keep those areas clean and help you avoid gum disease.

Myth 4: Gum Disease Is No Big Deal

Gum disease isn’t often not taken seriously. While symptoms may not be incredibly alarming in the early stages of infection, symptoms can become severe if the disease is left unchecked.

Advanced gum disease can result in loose teeth, tooth loss, and dental abscesses, and it has been connected to an array of serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and others.

Myth 5: Oral Health Is Not Connected to Overall Health

Although there may be separate insurance policies for your healthcare and your oral healthcare, that doesn’t mean there’s any real separation between your oral and your overall health. Issues with your teeth and gums can remain localized, but they can also extend to your entire body if you’re not careful.

For instance, the bacteria that cause gum disease can eventually travel throughout your body and cause infection and inflammation in other areas. Try to keep this in mind next time you feel your oral hygiene routine beginning to slip.

Learn More About Dental Hygiene From Pinnacle Dentistry

One of the most crucial elements of your oral hygiene routine is to visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist can catch potential issues early and help you effectively maintain your beautiful smile.

The experienced team at Pinnacle Dentistry provides a comprehensive range of dental services in Colorado Springs. For more dentist tips on keeping a healthy mouth, reach out to Pinnacle Dentistry today, or request an appointment online.