Bad Habits That Destroy Smile

Maintenance of your teeth is a lifelong process. And if you add some bad habits into this equation, it can make the whole process even more difficult. You should eliminate the following habits from your life if you want to maintain a healthy smile.

• Consumption of soda – Too much consumption of soda leaves a constant coating of sugar and acids on your teeth throughout the day. This then slowly build up over time and starts eating away at your teeth. Regardless of whether it is regular or diet soda, it is best to stay away from these fizzy drinks if you want to prevent cavities.
• Chewing ice – Chewing ice is considered to be one of the biggest causes of chipped or cracked teeth in people.
• Teeth grinding – Teeth grinding will eventually wear down your teeth. If you have the habit of grinding your teeth at night, try putting on a mouth guard and then going to sleep.
• Hard candy – These sugary substances tend to coat your teeth. It then combines with the plaque to form an acid which then slowly eats away your teeth.
• Not flossing – Not flossing your teeth is also considered to be a bad oral habit. Daily flossing helps to clear the plaque in between your teeth which can then prevent gum diseases.
• Sports drinks – Sports drinks tend to have as much sugar as sodas. So even if the advertising says they are healthy, they are actually not. So just like sodas, try to limit your consumption of sports drinks.
• Opening things with your teeth – If you open things like bottle caps with your teeth, they will eventually lead to your teeth being chipped or cracked.
• Brushing too soon after eating – Brushing your teeth too soon after eating or drinking beverages such as soda or wine, can cause damage, because you are essentially rubbing softened enamel away. Instead, you should rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic beverages and then brush after 30 minutes.
• Failure to replace toothbrush in time – Older toothbrushes lose the majority of their effectiveness, and tend to harbor infectious bacterial growth over time. It’s recommended that toothbrushes be replaced at every 3 months. It’s also important to dispose and replace your toothbrush after any sickness or cold.
• Use of hard-bristled toothbrush – A stiff or hard-bristled toothbrush may cause damage to your gums, especially when paired with aggressive brushing habits.

Get in touch with a dental hygienist to know more about dental care.