Maintaining good oral health is essential for your overall health. Your teeth are essential to oral health, as they help you chew and speak. Because of this, you always need to ensure that your oral health is doing well. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting your family dentist for checkups.
However, despite doing all these things, some activities can further damage your oral health without you noticing. And if something needs to be done, they can contribute to serious oral problems.
Here are the following harmful habits you must avoid for healthier teeth:
Brushing Too Hard
While it’s essential to brush your teeth twice a day, some people tend to brush too hard or brush their teeth too often. Some people think it’s a good idea considering you’re doing your teeth a favor. However, this can do more harm than good.
You’re wearing down the enamel when you brush your teeth too hard. Enamel is the tough exterior layer of your teeth that helps protect them from decay. When it’s worn down, it can make your teeth more sensitive and increase your risk of developing cavities. If you’re concerned that you might be brushing your teeth too hard, try brushing for a shorter amount of time or using a softer toothbrush.
Nail Biting
Some people think that biting your nails is normal when one is filled with anxiety and stress. However, nail biting can lead to a lot of problems.
For starters, nail biting can cause your nails to become weak and brittle. This makes them more likely to break and makes them look unsightly. Additionally, nail biting can lead to infection if bacteria from your mouth get into the nail bed. To help break the nail-biting habit, try using bitter-tasting nail polish or keeping your nails trimmed short.
Playing without Mouthguard
If you’re an athlete who participates in sports that involve contact, it’s important always to wear a mouthguard. Not only does it protect your teeth, but it can also help prevent serious injuries to your jaw and lips.
Without a mouthguard, you’re at a higher risk of experiencing a concussion, broken teeth, and even a broken jaw. So make sure you always have a mouthguard on hand, whether you’re playing football, basketball, or any other sport. If you still don’t have one, you can consult your family dentist to be fitted for a custom-made mouthguard.
Using Teeth as Tools
Although it’s amazing when people use their teeth to crack a bottle of beer open or tear off a bag of chips, it puts the teeth at risk. Family dentists even advise people to refrain from using their teeth as tools because it can lead to chips, fractures, and other types of damage.
Suppose you’re in a situation where you need to use your teeth as tools; try to use your back teeth instead of your front teeth. And if you use your front teeth, ensure you’re gentle and avoid using a lot of force.
If you’re having trouble opening a bottle or bag, try using a knife or scissors instead. That way, you’ll keep your teeth safe and healthy.
Final Thoughts
It is important to be aware of the harmful habits that can damage your teeth and avoid them whenever possible. If you have bad habits, brush and floss your teeth regularly and see your dentist for checkups and cleanings. By taking care of your teeth, you can keep them healthy and looking great for years to come.
Chelmsford Dental Specialists Group is a trusted family dentist in Chelmsford that you can consult if you have any concerns about your oral health. We ensure that our patients receive the best dental care possible and provide them with the information they need to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
