Everyone should brush their teeth twice a day, floss regularly and visit their dentist twice a year. If you’ve got the basics down, you still have to avoid certain bad dental habits that could be damaging your teeth.
In this post, Dr. Jason Keefe of 5 Mile Smiles discusses some of these dental habits you should kick to the curb.
Bruxism (Grinding Teeth)
Bruxism is the medical term for grinding your teeth. Whether you grind your teeth when you’re stressed or while you’re sleeping, you could be risking severe damage to your teeth.
Teeth grinding may cause headaches, jaw pain and broken or cracked teeth. Your dentist may recommend wearing a mouth guard or other treatments to minimize the damage caused by bruxism.
Chewing Hard Objects
Some people can’t resist chewing ice after enjoying a cold beverage. Others may mindlessly chew on pencils, pens or their nails.
Chewing on any of these hard objects can crack your teeth. Even if you can’t see any damage, there may be tiny cracks that worsen over time and become serious problems.
Too Much Sugar
Soda, candy and other sugary substances can increase tooth decay and damage your enamel. Excessive consumption of refined sugar may also increase your risk of many other types of health problems.
Sipping soda through a straw may reduce the impact on your teeth, but your best option is to eliminate or significantly cut back on your intake of soda and other sweets.
Bad Brushing Technique
When you brush your teeth, keep the following tips in mind:
- Brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush unless your dentist recommends otherwise.
- Make sure you brush all sides of your teeth.
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
If you brush too hard or miss some areas of your mouth, you won’t be getting the maximum benefit from the time you’re spending brushing each day.
Smoking
Smoking is one of the worst habits for your overall health. It also stains your teeth and could increase your risk of gum disease.
If you’re having trouble with any of these bad dental habits, ask your dentist for advice. Even making some small changes — like one less soda per day or buying a new toothbrush — could improve your oral health over time.
Contact our Spokane cosmetic dentistry office to discuss any concerns you have about damage caused by bad dental habits and your treatment options. Please call or email us today to schedule your next appointment.
