Don’t Take Your Teeth For Granted
If you’ve been reviewing your health routine after the summer months, have you considered that your oral health plays a big part in your overall health and well being? Don’t take your teeth for granted! Here are some reminders to boost your dental habits and set you on the right path to long-lasting oral health. Read on to find out more. You already know that brushing, flossing, and regular check ups are the three keys to maintain healthy teeth and gums. People can sometimes tend to forget, however, that their unconscious habits undo their good dental hygiene routine and put their teeth at risk. While the enamel on your teeth is strong—in fact, it’s the hardest substance in the body—once it’s damaged, it doesn’t grow back but needs to be replaced with dental methods such as crowns, veneers or fillings. Bad habits can put this enamel at risk, such as:
- Nail biting: A habit that is usually triggered by stress or anxiety can cause your teeth to chip or even shift out of place. What’s more, the germs and bacteria transferred from your hands to your mouth can potentially infect or irritate your gums.
- Using your teeth as a bottle opener: Even though it’s tempting to try to open a bag of chips or a bottle with your teeth when you don’t have the proper tool available to do so, it can really do harm to your teeth. You may wind up with a cracked, chipped, or broken tooth. It’s not worth the risk.
- Chewing ice cubes: Did you know your teeth are made to crush through things not against them? The cold temperature and hardness of ice can do a number on teeth over time. Keep the ice in your drink.
- Brushing too hard: Brushing your teeth too hard can cause enamel abrasion, tooth sensitivity, and gum irritation. It’s important to do a thorough job of brushing, but take your time and be gentle with your teeth and gums when brushing.
Habits are hard to break, but with some awareness, you can keep your teeth in good condition so they can keep working for you. If you have questions about your dental health or any other dental question, please call our Frisco office, and we will be happy to help.
