Brushing and flossing every day, as well as seeing your dentist for cleanings, helps to keep your gums and teeth healthy. But did you know that you may influence your oral health by your lifestyle choices? From lack of sleep to smoking, you may be affecting your oral health in ways you are unaware of. Learning more will help you make the best decisions for your teeth and gums. Consult a cosmetic dentist in Fresno, CA, for more.
The following are some unhealthy behaviors that can seriously harm your teeth and better alternatives where applicable.
- Brushing too roughly
Many individuals have the urge to brush their teeth roughly. However, this is a bad habit. Not only do you not need much effort to eliminate plaque, but you can also wear down your tooth enamel and irritate your gums if you apply too much. You should also avoid using a toothbrush with very harsh bristles.
- Improper and irregular oral care
According to surveys, most individuals believe they clean and floss their teeth well, although they may not. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day are recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA). Brush your teeth for at least two minutes. You should clean each tooth thoroughly and brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper to remove any bacteria that may be present.
- Ice chewing
Chewing ice is a widespread habit; many individuals do it for pleasure rather than compulsion. While frozen water may appear safe, the American Dental Association advises that frozen cubes can damage and even shatter teeth. It can also irritate the sensitive tissues of the tooth, causing toothaches, and chewing on ice regularly can wear down your tooth enamel over time.
- Nail biting
Onychophagy is a compulsive behavior and a parafunctional activity. Stress, excitement, and even boredom may all cause this tendency in people. Nail biting is frequently thought of in terms of the damage it does to your fingers, but it also hurts your mouth. For long periods, your jaw is frequently pulled into an unnatural posture. A lot of germs on your fingertips can go into your mouth and wear down your front teeth, cracking and chipping them.
- Over-whitening and the use of OTC whiteners
Whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures, and it is a fantastic technique to remove discoloration and improve the appearance of a smile. However, it must be done under the guidance of your dentist. Certain OTC treatments may not suit you, and frequent whitening might cause enamel breakdown.
Overall, it is critical to make sound judgments about oral health. Consume a well-balanced diet and avoid sugary beverages and meals. Avoid smoking and wear protective gear when participating in high-impact sports to safeguard your teeth. Check-in with your dentist regularly.
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