Five Bad Habits To Avoid For Healthier Teeth
Everyday actions can damage our teeth without us realising.
Many modern dental practices, including our own Clock Tower Dental Clinic, now have very advanced ways of restoring or replacing a damaged or missing tooth. Although these offer an excellent option should the need arise, it is obviously far better to avoid the need for such treatments in the first place.
Whilst some treatment may be needed for wear and tear or damage caused by an accident, many dental problems arise through our own bad habits; many of which we probably don’t even recognise that we are doing. For the purposes of this post, we have assumed that you are already aware of the dangers of sugar and smoking with regards to your oral health, and in today’s blog our Epsom family dentist looks at some of the other things that you might be doing that could damage your teeth.
Acidic foods
Many patients are gradually becoming aware of the risk of eating or drinking too many acidic foods and drinks. There has been quite a lot of information in the press regarding the link between this and enamel erosion. Because fruit has always been considered to be healthy though, some people are eating citric fruits in the belief that they are good for them. It is true that they do contain high levels of vitamin C but care should be taken not to eat them in excess and to look after your teeth well if you do eat them.
Teeth grinding
This is a habit that can be difficult to control as most people who do this, do so in their sleep. It is thought that this action may be linked to stress, so if your dentist tells you that your teeth are wearing down due to bruxism (teeth grinding), it may be time to consider a change in lifestyle to try to reduce personal levels of stress. Your GP will also be able to offer advice here.
Brushing too hard
Brushing your teeth is very important, but did you know that brushing too hard actually wears away the enamel of your teeth, exposing them to tooth decay? There is no need to use too much force when brushing, and a gentle circular motion is all that is necessary. Many electric toothbrushes now have a pressure sensor that cuts out when you press too hard, and one of these could be a worthwhile investment.
Snacking
Obviously, snacking on sweets is bad for your teeth, but even consuming healthier snacks throughout the day may still be damaging your teeth to some degree. If you snack regularly throughout the day, residual food and sugar deposits will provide a constant threat to the health of your teeth and gums.
Pen and fingernail chewing
Aside from any unhygienic aspects of chewing objects such as these, the force used may lead to a tooth chipping, or even breaking in some cases. So try to be aware of when you are doing this and make a conscious effort to stop.
Although it is better if you can break these habits, if you do have any problems with your teeth and gums as a result, we are here to help you. To make an appointment at our Epsom dental practice, please call the Clock Tower Dental Clinic on 01372 720136.