We are all creatures of habit, whether we like to admit it or not. Unfortunately, some of the behaviors that are part of your day-to-day routine put your oral health in jeopardy. We aren’t talking about nursing a soda or coffee habit all day – you (hopefully) know that’s not ideal for your teeth. You also know that eating too much sugar is a problem for your teeth. It’s time to draw attention to the tendencies you have that seem like they couldn’t possibly cause harm, but all five of the following bad habits can have you hunting down your Johns Creek dentist for emergency dental care.
Your teeth are your go-to gadget.
A stubborn package won’t open – so you use your teeth to pry it apart. Or maybe you use your teeth all the time to tear bags apart instead of reaching for an instrument that is meant to open things. Whether your teeth work as a tool, one thing is for certain: Eventually your teeth will break, chip, or crack. And it won’t be pretty. Teeth are not meant to act as a pair of scissors or a knife. Teeth are intended for biting and chewing food.
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You whiten your teeth too much.
Are white teeth ever a bad thing? Absolutely not. However, if the white shade of your teeth was achieved through over-the-counter whitening treatments, you could encounter problems through simple user error. Assuming you applied the whitening treatment successfully, your results still may not be as bright as you wanted, or maybe they’re so satisfyingly bright you want them to be even brighter. Either situation could prompt you to whiten more – and sooner than recommended. Gum sensitivity and damaged enamel are just two of the big problems that could result. A professional teeth whitening treatment gives you the stunning white smile you want without discomfort or oral health problems.
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You brush your teeth too hard.
How can brushing vigorously be bad? Teeth are supposed to be clean, right? Cleaning your teeth too aggressively can weaken tooth enamel, which means your teeth are more susceptible to decay and developing cavities. Damaged gums that are repeatedly abused by heavy handed-brushing can also create gum recession. Only a certain part of your tooth is meant to be exposed for aesthetic reasons and comfort level. Receding gums not only affect the look of your smile, they can lead to tooth sensitivity.
You don’t drink enough water.
Many people turn to energy drinks or power aids to hydrate. Your electrolytes might be replenished but, unfortunately, these drinks are heavy on sugars and carbs. Both ingredients will have a party in your mouth and damage tooth enamel. Water is good for your body, and it’s good (and necessary) for your teeth. Yes, the saliva in your mouth helps wash away bacteria and food or plaque that has built up, but saliva needs assistance. Without water, you can develop dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay, bad breath, and a host of other problems.
Own Up to Your Oral Health Habits
Don’t be afraid to own up to your bad oral health habits. Your dentist can see when something isn’t quite right, and knowing how a problem has occurred helps your cosmetic dentist determine the best course of treatment. If you are having trouble with your teeth or gums, make an appoingment with Dr. Patel and Family & Cosmetic Dental Care in the Suwanee area.
