Everyone desires a healthy, strong smile — but there are some common habits that we can pick up over our lifetimes that can derail our smile goals.
Apart from maintaining a regular brushing and flossing regimen and maintaining a balanced diet, there are some habits you can avoid if you want a healthier smile. Let’s take a look at some of them below.
Smoking
Smoking or using tobacco products can be very harmful to your overall and oral health. Tobacco can inflame your salivary glands, which causes dry mouth and promotes bacterial growth. The more bacteria growth you have, the harder it is to maintain good oral health.
Alcohol
Excessive alcohol consumption creates a highly acidic environment in your mouth, which can speed up the erosion of enamel, or the hard, protective outer layer of the teeth.
Nail Biting
When you bite your nails, you spread bacteria from under the surface of your nails in your mouth. Not to mention, biting down on a tough nail can cause your teeth to chip or crack.
Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard
If you don’t brush your teeth properly, you can put your smile in harm’s way. Brushing your teeth too harshly can damage your delicate gums and enamel, especially if you drag your brush back and forth across your teeth. Using the proper brushing technique by brushing your teeth in small circles can help give a deeper clean safely.
Grinding Your Teeth
If you clench your jaw or grind your teeth while you sleep, you can put your teeth at risk of injury. Getting a nightguard and reducing your stress levels can help mitigate the effects of grinding and even help eliminate the problem altogether.
Biting Down on Non-Food Objects
If you chew pens or open wrappers with your teeth, you might damage your smile. A good rule of thumb is to only use your teeth for chewing food.
Comprehensive Dentistry in College Station, Texas
Visiting your dentist twice a year is a great way to maintain good oral health. If you indulge in any of the habits above, your dentist can work with you to kick them for good and address any issues you might have as a result of them. At Hooks Family Dentistry, we offer preventative, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency services for the whole family. We’re here for you no matter what your smile needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
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