Break The Habit
There are many normal day to day activities that cause wear and tear to your teeth. Then there are the not so normal habits that need to be broken. These are avoidable things you do every day that are damaging your teeth. You might not even be aware of the fact that what you’re doing is hurting them.
Ice, Ice Baby
Do you have the bad habit of chewing on ice? Whether you like the feel of it, or it’s simply just become a habit for you– stop it. It can cause extensive damage to your teeth, and can even break them. It can also irritate the soft tissue inside of your teeth and cause toothaches.
If you want something to chew on, we recommend sugar-free gum. Make sure it’s sugar-free since sugar is a big no-no for your teeth.
Grinding Your Teeth
Teeth grinding is known by the medical term bruxism and most commonly affects people in their sleep. Over time, grinding can do a lot of damage to the teeth and even cause other health problems. If you have this issue, we can help. We can make you a customized nightguard you can wear while you sleep. We also recommend you avoid hard foods during the day since this can reduce pain and damage from grinding.
Sugary Sodas
Sodas today have over 10 teaspoons of sugar per serving. They also contain phosphoric and citric acids, which eat away at your tooth enamel. If you think diet sodas are the answer, you’re wrong. They might not contain sugar, but they have even more acid than regular sodas because of the added artificial sweeteners. You can have a soda, just make sure it’s a special treat– and not an everyday occurrence.
Piercings
Piercings may be trendy, but before you get one, it’s important to consider the ramifications it can have on your teeth. With tongue piercings, the metal stud can crack or break your teeth. Lip piercings can have the same negative impact.
Our mouths are basically Petri dishes for bacteria, and piercings raise the risk of infections and sores. It’s very important you discuss any mouth jewelry with us before you go through with it.
Using Your Teeth As Tools
Using your teeth as tools is a big mistake and trying to open a bag or bottle with your mouth can lead to serious problems. You can fracture a tooth, break a tooth and even damage a filling or crown. Whatever you’re trying to open– it can wait.
Brushing Your Teeth Immediately After Eating Acidic Foods
If you’re in the habit of brushing right after eating, that’s something you’re going to want to change. If you immediately brush your teeth after eating or drinking anything acidic, the abrasion of the toothbrush on the softened enamel can cause damage. Luckily, there’s a simple solution. Make sure you wait at least 30 minutes before brushing after meals.
Any Questions?
If you’d like to book a consultation for a nightguard, you can do so here. We hope we’ve enlightened you with what not to do to keep your pearly whites in tip-top shape!
Ever since he was little Dr. J. Fred Arnold wanted to be a dentist. He has lived in Kentucky all of his life, except for three years he spent serving in the Air Force (1984-1987). He and his wife Holly have raised their family here and couldn’t imagine spending life anywhere else. They love the great schools and the emphasis on arts and culture.
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