You might not think twice about some of the habits you do every day. However, you may be surprised when your dentist tells you that these habits are actually really bad for your teeth. How can you work to improve your oral health without having to change up your lifestyle? Is there an easy way to maintain good dental hygiene, or is it too late? Below we look at the top 5 habits that damage your teeth.
Top 5 Habits That Damage Your Teeth
Fortunately, there are many ways to transform your daily habits into actions that benefit your health on a holistic level. Today, your trusted dentist in Cedar Falls will list the top 5 habits that damage your teeth on a regular basis without you even realizing it.
Nail Biting
You might catch yourself chewing on your nails when you’re nervous when you’re upset, or even just simply when you’re bored. Being anxious results in a number of different habits that might not be too healthy for your body. Biting your nails is also bad for your teeth as you need to protrude your jaw in order to bite something so small. Over longer periods of time, this jaw protrusion can lead to severe pain and even skeletal dysfunction.
Grinding Your Teeth
Similarly, grinding or clenching your teeth constantly can lead to the development of chronic jaw pain. Temporomandibular joint disorder, commonly called TMJ, occurs after repeated movements of the jaw causing pressure on the joint. Many people grind their teeth as they sleep, so they aren’t even aware of this habit that can wreak some serious havoc in the mouth. You can stop clenching overnight by wearing a customized night guard, which acts as a cushion against the force of your jaw.
Using Too Many Toothpicks
A growing number of studies are showing that using toothpicks is a bad way to clean teeth. While it might be tempting to want to pick out a piece of food that has been wedged between two of your teeth, you are much better off using a toothbrush or some floss. Toothpicks can actually irritate the gums, enflaming the surrounding area and possibly leading to an accidental infection.
Eating Lots of Sugar
This is the excuse we hate to hear the most. But it is, unfortunately, true. High-sugar foods lead directly to dental decay and the spread of harmful bacteria throughout the mouth. Candy, soda, and other sugary snacks are not just enjoyed by you but by the bacteria as well, causing them to grow. You can avoid this by maintaining a balanced diet, making sure to wash away sugar with a few glasses of water anytime you are looking to indulge.
Brushing Too Hard
It is good to be passionate about brushing your teeth every day. But there is such a thing as brushing too hard. Whether your toothbrush uses soft or abrasive bristles, scrubbing hard can cause the enamel of your tooth to wear off. Once enamel is worn, your tooth becomes much more susceptible to damage and decay. If you are concerned that you are brushing too hard, you might want to get a softer toothbrush. Your dentist can make recommendations depending on your overall oral healthcare needs.
Learn More About Good Dental Health Today
Visit your dentist to learn more about the state of your own dental health. Damaged and broken teeth can easily be repaired through a number of restorative services, including dental bridges and crowns. We also offer plenty of cosmetic treatments to help you invest in a happy and healthy smile. Whether you are suffering from a tooth infection or you want to straighten out your smile, you can achieve your dental health dreams with us today when you give us a call!