Bad Habits That Can Damage Oral Health

Good dental habits promote a healthy smile. Unfortunately, many of us develop bad dental habits that can damage our teeth over time. Practicing good dental habits can help protect your teeth from damage. Listed below are some of the most common bad dental habits that can cause damage to your teeth.

• Smoking

Cigarettes contain nicotine and carbon monoxide, chemicals that can irritate the inner lining of the mouth, causing painful sores or ulcers. Additionally, the tar in cigarettes can stain the teeth and cause bad breath. People who smoke are also at risk for gum disease, oral cancer, and tooth loss. Quitting smoking can improve the health of teeth and gums long term.

• Teeth Grinding

If you wake up with a sore jaw or a headache in the morning, you may grind your teeth at night. Over time, this habit can wear down tooth enamel and cause you to experience sensitivity. It can also increase your risk for TMJ disorder. The dentist can fit you with a custom night guard for your mouth to minimize the effects of teeth grinding.

• Nail Biting

Teeth aren't designed for chewing on hard surfaces, so when you bite your nails, you're potentially damaging your teeth. Furthermore, germs and bacteria from your fingernails can get into your mouth and cause infection. If you've noticed that you have bitten nails for years, talk to your dentist about ways to break the habit.

• Using Teeth As Tools

Using your teeth to open packages and bottles can chip or fracture your teeth. Don't use your teeth to remove bottle caps or pry things open. Instead, find a proper tool or use your fingers.

• Aggressive Brushing

Most people are guilty of being too hard on their teeth when they brush and floss. Unfortunately, this can damage the enamel and gums over time. Overzealous scrubbing can also cause gum recession, which exposes the roots of the teeth to bacteria and the risk of infection or decay. Instead, gently brush your teeth for two minutes at a time with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Focus on brushing straight along the gum line rather than moving the toothbrush back and forth in small strokes. If you have trouble controlling your pressure when brushing, consider using an electric toothbrush with a built-in pressure sensor. This can help you maintain consistent pressure as you clean your teeth.

If you wish to learn more about taking care of your oral health, schedule a consultation with our dental experts. You can call any of our offices in Livonia [at (734) 425-7888] or Ann Arbor [at (734) 888-8886] or book an appointment online. We're always happy to help our patients!