A healthy mouth with strong teeth, firm gums, and a pink tongue means a more confident smile, less discomfort, and an overall better quality of life. Oral care is an important part of one’s health, wellness, and overall living conditions.
Many daily habits can influence one’s oral health. Some habits like flossing and brushing your teeth are good, playing an essential role in maintaining the quality of your teeth and gums. However, many unconscious habits can negatively affect your oral health. As you prepare for the new year, consider kicking these four bad habits for the sake of your oral health.
1. Brushing Too Hard
While brushing your teeth is vital for maintaining oral cleanliness, excessive force can lead to enamel erosion and gum damage. Eroding your teeth’s protective outer layer makes them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity, which can lead to cavities and discomfort while drinking and eating. Damaging your gums causes them to recede or even bleed, creating gaps where bacteria can build up and lead to gum disease. Ideally, you want to use a soft-bristle toothbrush and apply gentle pressure while cleaning your teeth.
2. Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching are common behaviors that can seriously jeopardize your oral health. Often occurring during sleep or in stressful situations, these actions exert excessive pressure on the teeth, leading to wear and tear of the enamel, cracked or chipped teeth, and even tooth loss in severe cases.
Consider investing in a night guard if you think you might be clenching and grinding your teeth in your sleep. Pay closer attention to your natural reactions, relax your jaw, and avoid grinding your teeth when you are stressed or anxious.
3. Using Teeth as Tools
Teeth are intriguingly powerful, but they do have their limits. Using your teeth to open packages, cut off tags, or crack nuts can lead to chips or cracks. Rather than using your teeth as a multi-tool, reach for the appropriate instrument for the task at hand.
4. Ignoring Routine Dental Check-ups
Routine dental check-ups serve as a preventive measure, allowing your dentist to detect potential dental problems before they evolve into more serious conditions. Skipping these appointments can allow unnoticed dental conditions to progress unchecked. Dentists also have more powerful and effective cleaning and maintenance tools, guaranteeing deeper and more successful oral care. Book your routine check-up with your dentist office and pick up the good habit of getting your teeth cared for by professionals.
Being mindful of these four bad habits to kick for the sake of your oral health and taking proactive steps to correct them can contribute positively to your overall well-being. Pinnacle Dental Associates can help you kick these bad habits to the curb and improve your oral health with routine check-ups and other preventative and care solutions. Book an appointment today and transform your oral health for the better.