Do you dream of having aesthetically pleasing teeth with no issues? I think we can all agree that it is a wonderful aspiration for your oral health. Unfortunately, many of us don’t always do what we should to ensure that our teeth remain healthy. Harmful habits and bad decisions can negatively affect oral health. While some patients experience immediate problems, others can expect to have issues in the future. We want to share some common habits that can negatively affect your oral health. Read on to learn more.
Habits That Can Harm Oral Health
We want to take a few moments to share some habits that may be affecting your oral health so you can make the necessary changes as soon as possible:
Using Your Teeth as Tools
- Many people continuously use their teeth as tools and don’t even realize they are doing it. Have you ever used your teeth to open a bag, tear off a tag, or open a bottle? If so, you are guilty of this habit. Using your teeth inappropriately can lead to damage, such as cracked and broken teeth. We encourage you to take a few extra moments and use the appropriate tool for your needs.
Biting Your Nails
- This is an extremely common bad habit. Not only can biting your nails lead to problems with cracked or chipped front teeth, but it also introduces harmful bacteria into your mouth. These bacteria can lead to problems such as canker sores and illness.
Snacking Throughout the Day
- Each time you eat, you introduce bacteria into your mouth. Bacteria linger on and between teeth until you remove them by brushing and flossing, and even then, some remain. The harmful bacteria left behind can lead to tooth decay. This is one of the reasons we suggest only eating at mealtimes. This is also the reason we recommend choosing water over a sugary beverage such as a soft drink, sports beverage, or sugary coffee.
If you are concerned that any of these habits have already caused damage to your teeth, please call our office, which is located in Brunswick, GA, to schedule an appointment. We can work together to come up with a dental plan that is right for you and your needs. We look forward to seeing you soon!
