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Your oral health is directly tied to your daily habits—both the good and the bad. At Dr. Bostani’s Advanced Dental, we are committed to helping patients maintain healthy smiles that last a lifetime through proper oral health care and hygiene. While brushing and flossing are key, avoiding harmful habits is just as important. If you’ve been wondering what actions might be damaging your teeth without you even realizing it, this FAQ-style guide breaks down some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Yes, using a hard-bristled toothbrush can do more harm than good. While it may seem like stiff bristles would clean more effectively, they can irritate and damage your gum tissue. Over time, this can cause your gums to recede and expose the sensitive root surfaces of your teeth. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush for gentle yet effective cleaning. A soft brush, used with the proper technique, can remove plaque without harming your gums or enamel.
Flossing daily is crucial for maintaining a healthy mouth. Brushing alone cannot reach the tight spaces between your teeth where plaque and food particles tend to accumulate. When flossing is skipped, bacteria can build up, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. We encourage patients to floss at least once a day using any product they prefer—traditional string floss, dental picks, or water flossers—as long as it’s done consistently.
Absolutely! If you play contact sports or engage in physical activities where there’s a risk of impact to your face or mouth, wearing a mouthguard is essential. Injuries from sports can lead to chipped, cracked, or even knocked-out teeth. A properly fitted mouthguard can prevent serious trauma and save you from future dental emergencies. Dr. Bostani can create custom mouthguards for optimal comfort and protection.
Yes. Sharing utensils or toothbrushes can expose your mouth to bacteria from someone else’s saliva, even if they appear healthy. This can increase your risk for cavities, gum disease, or other oral infections. Tooth decay-causing bacteria are transmissible, especially among close family members or partners. To protect your oral health, it is best to use your own utensils, cups, and dental care tools exclusively.
In addition to those already discussed, other habits that can harm your smile include nail biting, chewing on ice or pens, using your teeth to open packages, and grinding your teeth (often unconsciously during sleep). All these habits can wear down your enamel or cause cracks and chips in your teeth. Our team can help identify damaging behaviors and recommend personalized strategies to protect your smile.
Achieving top-notch oral health takes more than just brushing twice a day. By avoiding harmful habits like using hard-bristled brushes, skipping flossing, not wearing mouthguards, and sharing utensils, you are taking crucial steps toward a healthier smile. If you have questions about your dental routine or need help breaking any of these habits, Dr. Payam Bostani and the team at Dr. Bostani’s Advanced Dental are here to help. Call (818) 918-5533 or visit www.drbostani.com to schedule your appointment today.
Dr. Payam P. Bostani, DDS, is a highly experienced and compassionate dentist serving the Burbank, Glendale, and San Fernando Valley communities. A graduate of UCLA School of Dentistry, he has advanced training in esthetic dentistry, orthodontics, and dental implants, including a fellowship with the International Academy of Dental Implantology. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Bostani is a member of prestigious organizations like the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and the American Association of Orthodontics. He is renowned for his gentle approach and commitment to providing cutting-edge care in a welcoming, family-friendly environment, making patients feel comfortable and well-informed.
