The 5 Worst Habits for Your Teeth

There are certain things we’ve all been taught about keeping our teeth healthy: brush, floss, rinse, repeat! Oral health is a bit more complicated than that, however, and there are some things you may not even consider that could be impacting the soundness of your teeth. Here are the 5 worst habits for your teeth, straight from the dentist!

Using Teeth as Tools

Sometimes you just can’t find a can opener! But though it may be convenient, using your teeth for opening bottles or cans, ripping or cutting things that aren’t food, or really in any capacity other than eating can significantly increase the risk of cracks and fractures.

Chewing Ice/Pens/Nails

Similar to number 1, your teeth should be used for food only! Chewing non edible things brings your teeth into contact with surfaces harder than they are meant for, and can lead to chips, cracks, or fractures, especially if decay is already present.

Thumbsucking

It may seem like an innocent habit (and oh so cute for little babies!), but thumbsucking can have disastrous consequences on the alignment of teeth. Any thumbsucking past the age of 3 or 4 can put too much pressure on the teeth, causing misalignment, open bite, even jaw and palate malformation. This in turn can lead to difficulty chewing and speech impediments, among other concerns.

Brushing Too Hard

You’re probably asking yourself, isn’t brushing a good thing?! And when done correctly, it is a crucial step in your home health routine. However, overly aggressive brushing can abrade the gums, causing recession that, if unchecked, can lead to invasive and uncomfortable procedures like gum grafting surgery. Remember to use gentle strokes at a 45 degree angle to the gums! Read more on correct brushing technique here.

Excessive Sugar Intake

As they say, everything in moderation! Too much sugar can have negative effects on your overall health, potentially even leading to type 2 diabetes. In oral health terms, the bacteria responsible for tooth decay LOVE a sugar party in the mouth - the bacteria consume the sugar, proliferate, and begin to attack the teeth. Overly sugary drinks also often have a high acid content, leading to acidic erosion of your teeth’s enamel. 

Good habits for your teeth include drinking plenty of water, brushing your teeth and flossing every day, and eating a healthy diet. Questions on your home care routine or habits to avoid? Contact us today!