Gilbert General Dentist Shares Some Habits That Can Hurt Your Teeth
Most people go about their daily routine without giving much thought to their teeth. As a result, they overlook habits that damage their teeth and put their oral health at risk. Read on to learn about practices that hurt your teeth from the Gilbert general dentist.
Habits That Hurt Teeth and Their Solutions
What you eat and drink, your lifestyle habits or your activities can wreck your teeth. Some practices may damage your teeth, while others can lead to tooth loss. As a result, you will spend a lot of money and time restoring your teeth and smile. Therefore, you should be conscious of things that can affect the condition and health of your teeth. Harmful habits that hurt teeth are:
- Nail Biting
Some people have a habit of biting their nails, particularly when nervous or bored. Although the practice may not seem harmful, it significantly damages your teeth and jaws. For example, you can chip your teeth resulting in decay. Also, you may change the shape of your teeth.
Nail biting can also cause jaw dysfunction when done for a long. It occurs when you hold your jaw in a protruded position when biting your nails. If you bite your nails, you should seek an incentive to stop the habit. You may consider painting your nails with nail polish or avoiding situations that cause you to bite them.
- Smoking
Smoking or using tobacco products causes major damage to your teeth. It increases your risk of periodontal disease, halitosis, tooth decay, and oral cancer. If you smoke, you can request a dentist near you tips to maintain better oral health. Also, you can ask your physician for help quitting or reducing consumption.
- Teeth Clenching or Grinding
Clenching and grinding teeth result in tooth damage and TMJ disorders. It also leads to enamel erosion which consequently causes tooth sensitivity and decay. Although it is a subconscious habit, your dentist can help. They can fit you with a customized nighttime mouth guard to protect your teeth.
- Chewing Ice
Chomping on ice cubes can be refreshing on a hot day. However, the seemingly harmless practice risks the health of your teeth. Your teeth can chip, break or fracture. In addition, the tooth roots can be damaged, resulting in toothache or a dental pulp infection. Chewing on ice can also break or displace teeth fillings. Take your iced drink with a straw to help kick the habit.
- Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard
Some people press too hard when brushing or use a toothbrush with stiff bristles. As a result, they damage the tooth enamel and their gums. When the enamel is damaged, you will experience increased sensitivity to hot or cold things. Your risk of cavities also soars.
You can avoid damaging your teeth by using a toothbrush with soft bristles. While cleaning your teeth, move the brush gently in broad strokes. In addition, avoid brushing when you need to hurry since it will cause you to brush too hard.
- Consuming Excess Sugary Foods, Beverages, and Soda
Sugary foods and drinks increase oral bacteria leading to plaque formation. The presence of plaque increases your risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. Therefore, when you snack on sugary treats frequently, you hurt your teeth.
Taking plenty of soda also damages teeth. It is because soda and other carbonated drinks contain acids that lead to enamel erosion. Although you may love sugary treats and soda, avoid taking them excessively. Protect your teeth from damage by brushing them whenever you consume them.
- Using Teeth as a Tool
Teeth are used for chewing, biting, and helping you to speak correctly. However, some people misuse their teeth by opening packages or bottles with them. This habit results in broken, fractured, or chipped teeth. Avoid using your teeth to perform these activities. Instead, use proper tools like bottle openers or scissors.
- Avoiding the Dentist
The dentist in Gilbert can help you prevent teeth damage and maintain excellent oral health. However, some people avoid visiting the dentist for routine dental care. If you are among them, do not skip dental appointments or go to the dentist only when there is an emergency. Instead, schedule routine dental check-ups at Town Square Dental for optimum oral health.