You may brush twice a day and floss nightly, but there are still plenty of bad habits that can affect your dental health. Here are some of the most common ones.
Not brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once daily – Brushing and flossing are the most effective ways to keep your teeth clean and healthy. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. It is also the number one cause of bad breath.
Many people brush or floss their teeth too aggressively, which can wear down the gum line and cause a recession. It can also result in tiny cracks forming in the teeth. All of these issues can lead to sensitive teeth and increase the risk of cavities and infections developing inside the tooth. It’s important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle flossing technique to avoid these problems.
Using your teeth to open bags, crack nuts, rip tags off clothing, or even chew on ice can crack or chip them. This can result in a range of painful problems, including sensitivity, toothaches, and lost teeth. These activities can crack or chip your teeth or even loosen them to the point of falling out entirely. Avoid the temptation to chew on things except for food. And try to replace these behaviors with other alternatives such as scissors, knives, or other tools. Always keep a set of scissors handy in order to avoid using your teeth for these types of purposes.
One of the best ways to keep your mouth healthy is by visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. These visits allow the dentist to check for any signs of infection or damage and treat it early before it has the chance to spread and become a major problem. They are also able to spot any problem areas in their earliest stages when they are the easiest to treat.
Many people grind their teeth at night and have no idea it’s even happening! If this sounds like you, let your dentist know at your next appointment. It can lead to all kinds of problems, including jaw pain, headaches, and even damaged teeth and fillings. If you notice that you often wake up with a headache or sore jaw, it could be a sign that you’re grinding your teeth in your sleep. Try wearing a nightguard when you go to bed to protect your teeth from damage due to nighttime grinding. Nightguards can be worn comfortably while you sleep and help prevent you from unintentionally damaging your oral health.
Visit Beautiful Dentistry at 2125 E Warner Rd #101, Tempe, AZ 85284, or call us at (480) 831-1700 to learn more about ways to keep teeth healthy.Â
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