Bad Habits That Can Damage Our Oral Health

Taking care of your teeth is an important part of your overall health. Many of the daily habits you have could damage your oral health without you even realizing it. Listed below are a few common habits that can ruin your oral health.

• Nail Biting

Nail biting is a very common bad habit that can damage your oral health. If you are someone who often bites your nails, you are advised to stop immediately because it can lead to several oral health problems. Teeth can become chipped or cracked if you bite your nails too hard. This is going to weaken your teeth and they can be damaged even more if bacteria gets in the cracks. A crack in a tooth may also lead to an infection in the root of the tooth. So make sure you stop!

• Smoking

Smoking is a bad habit that can greatly damage our overall health. It is bad for our oral health as well. People who smoke are more likely to get gum disease than those people who don't. The same can happen to those who chew tobacco. Apart from that, it can also lead to oral cancer. Smoking also affects the mouth by staining teeth and causing bad breath. On top of that, it increases the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and even oral cancer. The nicotine in cigarettes also decreases blood flow in the gums, which makes it difficult for them to heal after they've experienced trauma. If you think you're ready to quit, talk to your dentist about techniques and products that can help you kick the habit for good.

• Brushing Teeth Aggressively

Something as simple as brushing your teeth may seem straightforward; however, many people end up damaging their teeth and gums through simple poor habits when brushing. While it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day with toothpaste containing fluoride, the way you brush can have a major impact on your oral health. If you brush too aggressively or roughly, you can damage your gums and cause them to recede. This can cause you to feel pain and even cause sensitivity in your teeth. In addition to causing pain and damage in your mouth, receding gums can also make your smile look less attractive by exposing the roots of your teeth.

To protect your mouth from harm, remember to brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, making sure to cover the entire surface of the teeth and the gum line. It is also important to replace your toothbrush every three or four months in order to make sure it remains in good condition. By caring for your toothbrush properly, you can help avoid bacteria growth that can lead to disease.

• Teeth Grinding

If you have a habit of clenching your teeth or grinding them at night, talk to your dentist about a custom mouthguard. This will prevent wear on your teeth from grinding; it will also prevent your jaw muscles from locking up while you sleep. Mouthguards can also help those who suffer from the habit of teeth grinding.

• Using Teeth As Tools

Biting nails and chewing on pen caps can crack or break teeth over time. Using a bottle opener to pop bottle tops can also cause similar damage. Instead, use scissors or pliers to remove the tops. Similarly, don't use your teeth to cut thread or floss between teeth. The same goes for cutting tape or removing staples from paper. Use the proper tools for these purposes instead. You don't want to chip a tooth while trying to do something simple. Also, don't open bottles or cartons with your front teeth either. Avoiding bad habits like these can help you avoid cracked or broken teeth and discomfort. If you are concerned that you may have damaged your teeth, contact your dentist's office to schedule an appointment. Treatment options are available to repair cracks in your teeth.

• Not Visiting The Dentist Regularly

The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and cleaning. Having professional cleanings on a regular basis will not only keep your teeth healthy and clean, but it can prevent serious issues from developing down the road. If an issue is detected early, you will most likely be able to avoid expensive dental procedures.

Your dentist will also be able to catch any smaller issues that you may not notice or feel on your own. If you have any questions or concerns about your dental health, call our office today to set up an appointment!

• Eating Unhealthy Foods

Acidic foods and beverages can wear down tooth enamel and leave teeth vulnerable to decay. Foods that are sticky can get stuck between teeth and cause bacteria to thrive. Bacteria create acids that attack the tooth enamel and cause cavities. If you are eating a healthy diet but are still experiencing issues with your oral health, be sure to schedule an appointment with our team. It is important to identify the source of your problems so that we can create a plan to help you restore the health of your smile.

Highland Dental Care, located in Denver, CO, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies. Call us at (303) 455-3838 to schedule an appointment at our dental practice.