3 Common Habits That Contribute To Cavities And Other Oral Health Problems
We want to help our patients achieve optimal oral health. However, patients often have certain habits that can affect their teeth and gums. This can lead to problems with decay and gum disease and cause dental emergencies. While some habits are obvious, others may be unexpected. We want to share three of the most common habits that patients are unaware can affect their oral health. Read on to learn if you have any of these habits.
Three Habits That Harm Oral Health
Many habits can harm oral health. The three listed below are common, and patients are often surprised that they cause problems with their teeth and gums:
Chewing Ice
Patients are usually shocked to learn that chewing ice is so harmful to their oral health. If you think about it, when you take ice immediately out of the freezer, it is as hard as a rock. You would need a hammer to smash and break the ice. Although your tooth enamel is strong, it is not indestructible. The most common damage we see from chewing ice is chipped and broken teeth.
Brushing Too Hard
Do you notice blood when you rinse your mouth after brushing? If so, you may be causing trauma to your gums from brushing your teeth too hard. Vigorous and hard brushing not only damages gums but tooth enamel as well. It causes the enamel to become prematurely worn, which can lead to sensitivity issues, tooth decay, and gum disease. Be sure to brush with gentle motions when brushing, and always use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Stiff bristles combined with rough brushing is a recipe for disaster.
Savoring Sugary Beverages
Each time you eat and drink, you are introducing harmful bacteria into your mouth. This is why we recommend limiting snacking and sticking to eating during mealtimes. Something patients may not realize is that if you drink something sugary, such as a special coffee drink, and sip it throughout the morning, you are continuously adding harmful bacteria to your mouth. Doing this each day increases your risk of developing tooth decay.
Any of the habits mentioned above can lead to oral health complications. If you experience any problems or are worried about the condition of your teeth and gums, we encourage you to contact our office, which is located in Silverdale, WA, to schedule an appointment.
