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      • Root Canals
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      • Two-Phase Treatment
      • Early Orthodontic Treatment with Dr. Steven Harrison
      • Adult Orthodontic Treatment by Dr. Steven Harrison
      • Orthodontics for Teens
      • Retainer Instructions
      • Emergency Care
      • Life with Braces
        • Types of Braces
        • Traditional Braces
        • Clear Aligners
        • Clear Ceramic Braces
    • Dental Implants
      • Implant-Supported Dentures
      • X-Guide Imaging Machine for Dental Implants
    • Pediatric Dentistry
      • Dental Care for Your Baby
      • Thumb Sucking
      • Tooth Decay
      • Cavities
      • Tooth Extractions
      • Pediatric Dental FAQs
    • Cosmetic Dentistry
      • ICON White Spot Treatment
      • Botox
      • Teeth Whitening
      • Invisalign
        • Invisalign at Parkcrest
        • Teen Invisalign
      • Bridges
      • Crowns
      • Veneers
      • Dentures
      • Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
  • New Patients
    • Tour Our Office
    • Financial Information
    • Parkcrest Dental Group Testimonials
    • Patient Forms
  • Sedation Dentistry
  • Preventive Care
    • Parkcrest Dental Group Brushing & Flossing Tips
    • Orthodontic Dentistry: Brushing & Flossing with Braces
    • Parkcrest Dental Group Radiology
    • General Dentistry & Oral Cancer Screening
    • Sealants at the Parkcrest Dental Group
    • General Dentistry & Fluoride
  • About Us
    • Meet the Team
    • Meet Dr. Scott
    • Meet Dr. Ropka
    • Meet Dr. Harrison
    • Meet Dr. Hall
    • Meet Dr. Fannin
    • Meet Dr. Dills
    • Meet Dr. Sponenberg
    • Meet Dr. Snider
    • Meet Dr. Allie
    • Community Involvement
    • What Sets Us Apart
    • 50th Anniversary
  • Contact Us
  • Blog
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      • After Oral Surgery
      • Botox in Springfield
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The Most Common Mistakes We Make When Brushing Our Teeth

  • November 24, 2019
  • 2:06 pm
  • Dental Care
  • Brushing Habits
  • Parkcrest Dental Group

There are a number of common mistakes that people make regarding their dental care. But the aspect that is supposed to be the easiest, brushing our teeth, is where many mistakes are made. Luckily, these mistakes are easily corrected. Learn the most common dental care mistakes many patients make and how you can avoid them.

You Pick the Wrong Brush

Anyone who has gone to the store for a new toothbrush has likely been overwhelmed by the vast selection available. From powered brushes to manual brushes, different sizes, different bristles, and a plethora of features — finding the right toothbrush may seem impossible. 

First, find a brush that offers soft bristles. It is important for the bristles to bend in order to get under your gum line and into those hard to reach places. You also want to find a brush head that fits your mouth. Once you find the perfect brush for you, don’t be afraid to buy extras and stock up.


Related Post: 3 Ways to Keep Up With Dental Hygiene as You Age

You Brush Too Hard

Many people make the mistake of thinking, “The harder I brush, the better.” In reality, plaque is soft and can be removed by a gentle brushing. Don’t go too hard on your teeth, because you may damage your enamel or gums. Be thorough, but brush gently, and your teeth will benefit in the long run.

You Rush Your Brush

Take your time as your brush. Dental care is not something that can be rushed. The standard recommendation is 2 minutes of brush time. Even if you are in a rush, a couple of minutes with your toothbrush is the minimum amount of time you should spend.

The Back and Forth Technique

If your brushing consists of dragging your brush left and right over the surface of your teeth, you are doing it wrong. Instead, start from the gum line and brush in a circular motion to ensure you get total coverage as you clean.

You Ignore Your Gum Line

The number one place bacteria is found is where your tooth meets your gum. Make sure your bristle reaches a few millimeters under the gumline to thoroughly clean this problem area. After you are done brushing, ensure you take the time to floss the gum line to help fight periodontal disease and subsurface tooth decay.

Related Post: Why You Should Floss

Ready to Improve Your Dental Care Routine?

Visit the expert team at Parkcrest Dental Group. Not only will we provide you with excellent oral care, but we can also help you to understand the in’s and out’s of your home dental cleaning routine. Schedule an appointment today online, or call our friendly staff at 417-887-1220.

Meet Some Dentists in Springfield, MO

Dr. Stuart Scott (top left) is our pediatric dentist. He earned his degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry before completing a two-year residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

Dr. Steven Harrison (top right) is board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. Dr. Harrison, our orthodontist, graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. He’s been with Parkcrest Dental Group since 1986.

Dr. Chanin Ropka (center left) attended UMKC before joining the United States Navy, where she served as the only dentist on board the USS Germantown and at Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego. Dr. Ropka began at Parkcrest Dental in 2001.

Dr. Daniel Fannin (center right) graduated from UMKC School of Dentistry in 1997. He completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency in 1998 before joining Parkcrest Dental Group that same year.

Dr. Steven C. Sponenberg (bottom left) has been a Springfieldian his entire life. He graduated from Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska, in 2004 before joining Parkcrest Dental Group immediately after.

Dr. Jason Hall (bottom right) is also a native Springfieldian. He earned his DDS from the University of Missouri at Kansas City Dental School in 1997. He came to Parkcrest Dental Group in 2010. Dr. Hall’s father, Stan, is also a dentist.

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