Bad Habits That Are Damaging For Our Oral Health

Oral hygiene is not just about brushing your teeth regularly. There are a lot more things that we do daily that can affect our oral health. Below are some bad habits you should avoid to maintain good oral health. 

• Biting your nails

Nail biting is a common habit in children and adults alike. Most people start nail-biting because of stress or boredom, but they often find it becomes a habit without realizing it. If you’re constantly putting your fingers in your mouth and chewing on them, you’re likely damaging your oral health by chipping or eroding dental enamel. 

• Smoking

Cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco all have one thing in common – they can cause severe damage to our teeth and gums. They can result in oral cancer, gum disease, tooth loss, and other painful oral issues. They can also stain your teeth as well. If you smoke, the best thing you can do to protect your oral health is to quit smoking altogether. Tobacco use in any form can also put your risk of periodontal (gum) disease at four times the normal rate! To aid you in quitting smoking for good, ask your doctor about different smoking cessation medications that can help curb your cravings while easing withdrawal symptoms. 

• Grinding your teeth

If you wake up with a sore jaw and a dull headache, you may grind your teeth while sleeping. Teeth clenching and bruxism are common problems for many people that can result in cracked teeth and headaches. If you’re concerned that you might be grinding your teeth at night, be sure to talk to your dentist. Your dentist may recommend an oral appliance like a night guard to protect your teeth from damage and reduce the effects of teeth grinding on your smile. 

• Not brushing enough

It’s not uncommon to brush your teeth less frequently than you should, but doing so can do some serious damage over time. Plaque not removed by brushing can harden into tartar, which is not removable with simple brushing or flossing. To get plaque and tartar out of your mouth, you’ll need professional care from a dental hygienist. Scaling your teeth will remove all the buildup so your gums can heal. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other health problems if left untreated for too long. Professional cleanings are the only way to remove tartar from your teeth and stop it from returning.

• Eating too much sugar

Most people know that sugar is bad for our teeth, but few realize how much it affects us. When you eat too much sugar, it’s converted to acid in your mouth. This acid wears away at the enamel on your teeth and causes cavities and decay. Cavities are holes in the tooth that can get bigger over time and cause much pain. The best way to avoid these problems is to limit sugar intake and eat a healthy diet of vitamins and minerals. 

Do you have a question? Or do you wish to schedule an appointment with us? Call Dawson Modern Dentistry – Matthews at (704) 565-9512 or visit Dentist in Matthews, NC at 3555-2 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd, Matthews, NC 28105.