Many people think that brushing 2x a day, flossing, and regular visit to their dentist is enough to ensure healthy teeth. But other than these three, it is important to check some of our habits that may be actually putting our teeth at risk of damage and decay.
Here are some habits that people are unaware of that can damage your teeth and can lead to decay:
Brushing Too Hard
The intention may be good, that is to remove all residues and bacteria from teeth surfaces and the spaces between them. But brushing too hard can destroy the enamel of your teeth. The enamel is the outer layer of the teeth that serve as protection. Once it is damaged, it will never be repaired again. This means that bacteria can now have access to the insides of your teeth because the protective covering has been destroyed. You may also start feeling dental hypersensitivity to cold and warm drinks.
If you are used to exerting more pressure when brushing, it is better to shift to a soft-bristled toothbrush and be mindful of how much pressure you put while brushing. This way, you won’t be damaging your teeth’s enamel some more.
Nail Biting
Nail biting is not a good habit to see. It may mean that you lack confidence or you are nervous. But whatever your reason for doing so, it is bad for your teeth and health. When biting your nails, you are giving your jaw joints some stressful moments because of the prolonged protruded position. It can also cause your teeth to chip. Aside from that, you may have not washed your hands. The areas between your nails and the skin beneath are potential hiding places of bacteria. That means that you are also increasing your risk of infection.
To do away with this habit, always make sure to cut your nails as short as can be. You can also go to a salon to let your nails be polished, For sure, you will think twice before biting your nails.
Chewing Ice
This summer, many would not leave their beverage glasses without trying to munch on the ice cubes left at the bottom of the glass. Chewing ice can also damage your teeth’s enamel just as hard as brushing does. It can also destroy braces, fillings, and other restorative works done on your teeth. Perhaps, you will stop chewing ice because you know how expensive teeth restoration works are.
Clenching Your Teeth
Some people clench or grind their teeth to express that they are angry or upset. But some even grind their teeth while they are asleep. This is a manifestation of a sleep disorder. In whatever way, teeth clenching or grinding is bad for your teeth as it gives extra stress on the surface of teeth used for chewing at the bases of the teeth that are connected to the jaw and gums. This does not only destroys the enamel but can also cause some teeth to chip.
Sucking Your Thumb or Fingers
Some children may not outgrow their sucking habits. While they are still babies, the habit may still be alright. But when a child reaches the age of five, thumb-sucking should stop. This is because it may cause misalignment of the teeth which can result in some serious issues.
Misusing Your Teeth
How many times did you open a bottle of beer by using your teeth because you cannot find the bottle opener? Maybe you often use your mouth to hold a bag of groceries while unlocking your car. These are instances when your teeth are misused for another purpose other than chewing. This can cause your teeth to chip and can also damage the enamel.
Sipping Carbonated Drinks
Soda is packed with sugar and is acidic. Bacteria love to feed on sugar and creating acid. This is especially damaging to your teeth as the acid can weaken the teeth’s enamel. When the dentin is exposed, tooth decay cannot be far behind if nothing is done about it.
Smoking Tobacco
Whether you smoke or chew tobacco, you are endangering your teeth. Tobacco can cause gum disease which affects the attachment of your teeth. Besides that, tobacco can turn your pearly white teeth into dirty yellow.
Using Toothpicks
Many of us love to pick food particles that got stuck in between our teeth after a meal. But did you know that this can also cause damages? It can lead to gum infections too. According to experts, instead of using toothpicks, it is better to use dental floss.
Some people may not give their teeth the proper care until they have noticeable signs of neglect like chipped and darkened teeth. But some may not even be bothered with that until they experience an extremely painful toothache that just won’t go away. Start caring for your teeth now to avoid such inconvenience. You may also save a lot of money from teeth restoration works.