Everyday Habits That May Be Causing Damage to Your Teeth
Let’s face it. Most of us do not spend the day thinking about our teeth. We eat meals, engage in conversations with others, give talks or presentations, exercise—all of our everyday activities. Little do we know that even simple daily activities can also be quite damaging to your teeth.
A static shows that at least 25% of U.S. adults have lost all of their teeth by the time they reach 65. You can prevent tooth decay and tooth loss by taking the right precautions now.
The Top Causes of Tooth Damage
Everything from our food choices to the way we brush our teeth has an effect on our body. Many of us do not realize how much our teeth affect our overall health. Oral health is known as the window to the body’s overall health. The bacteria in our mouths can lead to infection in other parts of the body, as an example.
These are the most common sources of tooth damage:
Sugar.
Sugar is considered the single most harmful element. It wears away the enamel and produces acidic bacteria. Acid is also found in citrus juices, such as orange, lemon, and lime, and can even be found in carbonated drinks. Club soda is particularly harmful due to its acidity.
Brushing too hard.
As dentists, we always recommend regular tooth brushing. Some of us, however, apply too much pressure when we brush our teeth. As family dentists in Austell, we can quickly identify when a patient has been brushing too vigorously: worn enamel, cavities, tooth sensitivity, and gum recession. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and make circular strokes with the brush, taking care to avoid the gums.
Biting down on objects.
Have you developed the habit of chewing on pens or pencils, ice cubes, or other objects? Some of us do this out of habit or because it helps us focus. Holding anything between your teeth that isn’t food can be harmful because our teeth were not meant to do this. This may also wear out the enamel and cause your teeth to chip or crack. The same idea applies to biting your nails or using your teeth to open or hold items.
Teeth grinding and jaw flinching.
Teeth grinding and clenching the jaw are most often a response to stress. We may not notice it, as this can occur while we sleep, a condition called bruxism. Try to wind down at the end of the day and engage in stress-relieving activities. The closer you get to bedtime, shut out all of the distractions and take the time to focus on yourself and relax. You may also want to think about wearing a mouth guard while you sleep to reduce damage brought on by grinding.
We are here to serve the dental needs of our local community members and have been doing so for 50+ years! If you have any further questions about tooth health, feel free to contact Austell Dental Associates and request an appointment.
