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We all know how to brush our teeth, right? Unfortunately there are times when we may actually do more harm than good. Here are the five worst toothbrush blunders:

1. Brushing too hard.

Brushing with too much force can damage sensitive gums and wear away the protective enamel of your teeth. Try to brush as lightly as possible and consider using a soft bristled brush. Most people should avoid bristles labeled as “hard”.

2. Not storing your toothbrush properly.

Ironically, one of the worst places to store your toothbrush is in the bathroom! It’s humid and full of germs. Avoid leaving your toothbrush where it will stay damp or come into contact with a lot of airborne bacteria. If you use a toothbrush cover, make certain that it allows your toothbrush to dry and consider one that has an antibacterial coating. One of the best places to store your toothbrush is upright in a closed cabinet.

3. Sharing your toothbrush.

Even if you’re not sharing with Fido, you should avoid allowing other members of your family to share your toothbrush. Bacteria can be transferred from mouth to mouth leaving you more susceptible to illness and even cavities. Make sure everyone has their own toothbrush!

4. Using an old toothbrush.

Many people continue using their toothbrush long after it’s time to replace it. As a general rule, your toothbrush should be replaced at least every 3-4 months especially if you notice that the bristles have become frayed. You should also consider tossing your old toothbrush in the trash after you have had the cold or flu.

5. Not brushing long enough.

Many people don’t brush long enough. You should brush for at least two minutes, twice each day. Try using the timer on your phone to get an idea of how long two minutes truly is. Children can be encouraged to brush for the proper amount of time by using some of the tools found on the 2min2x website!

We often hear patients talk about how they or their children have “soft teeth”. We especially hear comments related to how “soft teeth” have been inherited from their parents or have been passed down to their children.

But is there really a condition that causes some people’s teeth to be more susceptible to cavities than others?

Yes…and no.

Most people who suffer from frequent dental caries (cavities) actually have perfectly normal teeth. Their enamel is just as developed and strong as the average person. Poor dental habits are usually the cause of most cavities and with very few exceptions nearly all cavities are 100% preventable. The actual number of people who would have what could actually be called “soft teeth” is quite low.

A condition called Amelogenesis Imperfecta can result in thin, improperly formed enamel. This enamel is often pitted, uneven and brown. Inner layers of teeth can become exposed to damaging acids from food and saliva which leaves these true “soft teeth” more open to cavities.

Babies and young children often develop cavities as a result of bacteria transferred through the sharing of eating utensils or parents cleaning off pacifiers in their own mouths. It’s important to avoid transferring bacteria from one mouth to another and to begin dental care early. A soft washcloth can be used on a baby’s toothless gums, for example, and the American Dental Association has long recommended a small “smear” of fluoridated toothpaste for children under two years of age.

Even though the condition is extremely rare, we can’t rule out “soft teeth” without an exam. But most cavities can be avoided by regular flossing and brushing for two minutes at least twice every day!

Whether we are giving chocolate to the ones we love or whether we just love chocolate, we also care about our teeth. And while candy generally doesn’t mix well with keeping teeth healthy, dark chocolate (the kind with at least 70% cocoa) can actually be a cavity fighter. That’s obviously good news for chocolate lovers. Crest's new line of toothpaste has seized on the connection between chocolate and oral health by even including a chocolate flavor! Here are four reasons why chocolate is good for your teeth:

1. Chocolate is high in antioxidants.

Antioxidants are a group of molecules that keep your body healthy on a cellular level and chocolate contains a lot of them. In fact, dark chocolate can contain up to four times the level found in green tea. High amounts of antioxidants in saliva have been shown to fight periodontal disease.

2. Chocolate contains a high level of tannins.

Tannins are plant compounds that are found in many of the foods we eat. They’re also what give dark chocolate its slightly bitter taste and dark color. Tannins have been shown to help stop bacteria from sticking to teeth because their molecules bind to bacteria before plaque has time to form.

3. Chocolate is a good source of polyphenols.

Polyphenols are a class of naturally occurring chemicals that can limit oral bacteria. They are also able to neutralize the microorganisms that cause bad breath and prevent bacteria from turning sugar and starches into acid. Polyphenols have great promise for their apparent anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects as well as their ability to reduce hypertension and stroke.

4.Chocolate contains a flavonoid compound called epicatechin.

Flavonoids, a group of plant-based antioxidants, have been shown to slow tooth decay. Further, a recent study by researchers at the University of California showed that a particular falvonoid called epicatechin displays a remarkable ability to reduce cholesterol, blood clots and clogged arteries.

Remember, chocolate should be at least 70% cocoa for most of these benefits to your teeth and body. However, any food should be eaten in moderation, regardless of its health promises. And of course a chocolate bar is no excuse to skip brushing for at least two minutes twice a day.

Are you ready for the Big Game?  A Super Bowl get-together demands super snacks but not at the expense of your teeth.  That's why we've put together a few tasty game day snacking ideas with healthy ingredients.  Of course, these are snacks, and none of them are perfect.  Regardless of what you eat, don't forget to brush!

Spicy Jalapeño Dip

What's in it:

1 16 oz.  tub low-fat sour cream
1 packet of Hidden Valley Ranch (or other brand) Fiesta Dip
1 jalapeno, seeded and cubed

How it's done:

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend thoroughly.
Serve  the dip with raw vegetables such as carrots and celery.

What makes it tooth friendly:

This dip with a kick will make your veggies disappear.  Raw veggies require lots of chewing which stimulates and promotes healthy gums.  Carrots contain beta-carotene that your body uses to create vitamin A which works to build strong teeth.  The sour cream in this dip gives your teeth a boost of Calcium which also helps to keep your teeth strong.

Hummus with Cucumber

What's in it:

1/4 cup lemon juice
2 (15 ounce) cans chickpeas, one drained, one with liquid
4 tablespoons sesame seeds
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 garlic clove, peeled
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 cucumber
1/2 tablespoon parsley

How it's done:

Place all ingredients in a blender in the order listed except for the cucumber.
Blend for approximately 1 to 1 and a half minutes, pulsing as necessary.
Slice up the cucumber into thick pieces for dipping.
Place hummus in serving bowl and drizzle additional olive oil on top with some parsley for garnish.

What makes it tooth friendly:

Protein rich chickpeas don't contain any saturated fat or cholesterol, making hummus a good choice for your overall health.  Chickpeas are also rich in folic acid, which keeps your mouth healthy by promoting cell growth throughout your body.  As to the cucumbers, not only are they a healthy alternative to chips, but they are rich in vitamins B and C and have even been shown to help freshen breath and naturally whiten teeth!

The Party Standard: The Meat & Cheese Tray

What's in it:
This party tray is a cheese buffet with Gouda, White Cheddar, Havarti and Chipotle Jack.
Shaped like a football field on a kale turf, it includes red grapes, whole wheat crackers and summer sausage.

What makes it tooth friendly:
The cheese on the sidelines plays quarterback in this party tray.  Cheese is a tooth powerhouse with tons of tooth strengthening calcium and a protein called casein which is amazingly effective in protecting the surface of your teeth. One note about the crackers, however.  We chose whole wheat crackers for their beneficial fiber, but all crackers can stick to teeth and promote bacteria growth.  Again, just be sure to brush after the game!

Baked Cheese Roll

What's in it:
Goat Cheese Log
Grape or Olive Oil
1 small carton of Grape Tomatoes (sliced)
Basil Pesto
Balsamic Glaze
French Bread or Crackers

How it's done:
Preheat oven to 350°
In a jelly roll pan or small casserole dish, add approximately 1/4 inch of grape or olive oil.
Place goat cheese in the pan and cover with pesto, then grape tomatoes.
Bake for 20-30 minutes, remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Serve with French bread or your favorite healthy crackers.

What makes it tooth friendly:
If cheese made from cow's milk is a powerhouse, goat cheese is a touchdown.  It contains more protein and calcium than cow's milk cheese and yet has less fat and calories per serving.  The higher calcium of goat cheese means even more protection for your teeth.

Healthy 7-Layer Dip

What's in it:
3 Cups black beans
6 Oz. Greek yogurt (plain)
1 Cup shredded cheese
1 small can sliced black olives

Guacamole:
2 avocados
2 Tbsp. chopped cilantro
1 chopped chive
Juice from 1/2 lime
1 clove minced garlic
1/2 seeded and diced Jalapeño

Pico De Gallo:
2 small diced tomatoes
2 Tbsp. chopped cilantro
Juice from 1/2 lime
1/2 seeded and diced Jalapeño
1 chopped chive

How it's done:
Mix together all ingredients for the pico de gallo.
In a separate bowl, mix the ingredients for the guacamole layer.
The ingredients can be added in the following order (starting at the bottom): beans, yogurt, cheese, olives, guacamole, pico de gallo.

What makes it tooth friendly:
This dish has it all and it's a great update of what is usually a calorie dense snack.  While tomato and citrus juices can be tough on your teeth because of their high acidity, the cheese and Greek yogurt help to balance that out.  Plus, this dish is high in vitamins E, A and C, which are all essential for a healthy mouth.  Choosing celery or another vegetable over chips would make this an even better choice for your teeth.

Remember, regardless of what you choose to snack on during the Super Bowl, be sure to brush twice a day for two minutes each time!  What will you be snacking on during the Big Game this year? Comment below and let us know!