Depression and Sleep

Oral diseases impact nearly 3.5 billion people globally, and while low-income countries face rising rates, bad teeth are a common issue in the U.S. as well. Several factors can contribute to poor oral health, and you might unknowingly be practicing habits that damage your teeth. By recognizing and eliminating these habits, you can prevent further tooth decay and oral issues. Read on to discover the seven habits you need to avoid to maintain a healthy smile.

By making these positive changes, you can protect your teeth before it's too late.

1. Your Diet

One of the biggest contributors to poor dental health is your diet. Even healthy foods like fruit can harm your teeth due to their high sugar content. Sugar feeds bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to plaque formation, tooth decay, and gum disease. While fruit contains natural sugars, it can still increase the risk of cavities. Additionally, drinks like sodas and sports drinks are highly acidic and can erode tooth enamel over time.

To protect your teeth, try to reduce your intake of sugary snacks, desserts, and simple carbs. These foods contribute to the production of acid in your mouth, which wears away enamel. Visiting your dentist regularly (every six months) is crucial for maintaining good oral health. Sadly, only 64% of adults visit the dentist annually . Regular check-ups can help identify dietary factors that are negatively affecting your teeth.

2. Nail Biting

Nail biting is a common habit, but it’s not just bad for your nails – it’s bad for your teeth too. Biting your nails exposes your teeth to harmful bacteria from your fingers, which can lead to infections and tooth decay. This habit also weakens enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth, making them more vulnerable to damage.

The pressure exerted while biting nails can cause teeth to chip or shift, leading to discomfort or misalignment. In severe cases, frequent nail biting can worsen crowding issues in your mouth, especially if you have wisdom teeth. Besides nails, using your teeth to open bottle caps, tear packages, or bite on pens and pencils also risks causing fractures and other damage.

3. Using an Old Toothbrush

Many people don't realize the importance of regularly replacing their toothbrush. Over time, the bristles on your toothbrush wear down and become less effective at removing plaque and food particles. This leaves your teeth at greater risk for decay and gum disease. Experts recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.

If you've recently been sick, make sure to change your toothbrush to avoid reintroducing germs into your mouth and causing reinfection. Using a toothbrush that has deteriorated can harbor bacteria and actually contribute to poor oral health, rather than protecting it.

4. Skipping Dental Visits

One of the biggest mistakes people make is skipping regular dental check-ups. Routine dental visits are critical for maintaining good oral health because they allow your dentist to detect and address small problems before they become major issues. Dentists can clean areas you may miss during regular brushing and flossing, preventing plaque buildup and gum disease.

Regular visits can also help monitor the impact of habits like grinding teeth, clenching, or poor brushing techniques.

5. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Grinding or clenching your teeth, often done subconsciously during sleep, can lead to serious dental problems over time. This habit wears down enamel, can cause teeth to chip or crack, and may lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Stress is a common trigger for teeth grinding, and wearing a nightguard can help protect your teeth while you sleep.

6. Smoking

Smoking is not only harmful to your overall health, but it also wreaks havoc on your oral health. Tobacco use stains teeth, increases the risk of gum disease, and slows down the healing process after dental procedures. Smokers are also at a significantly higher risk for oral cancer. Quitting smoking can drastically improve your oral and general health.

7. Using Teeth as Tools

Using your teeth to open bottles, tear packaging, or bite down on hard objects can cause serious damage. This habit can lead to chipping, cracking, or even breaking teeth, which may require costly dental repairs. Instead, always use the proper tools, like bottle openers or scissors, to avoid unnecessary strain on your teeth.

Break the Bad Habits for Healthier Teeth

It’s time to kick these harmful habits and replace them with healthier ones. Small changes in your daily routine, like maintaining a balanced diet, replacing your toothbrush regularly, and visiting your dentist on schedule, can protect your teeth and improve your oral health. Take control today to ensure a bright, healthy smile for years to come!

Reference:

• American Dental Association: "Diet and Oral Health" (https://www.ada.org)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): "Nutrition and Oral Health" (https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/)
• Mayo Clinic: "Nail Biting and Oral Health" (https://www.mayoclinic.org)
• American Academy of Oral Medicine: "Habits and Oral Health" (https://www.aaom.com)
• National Institutes of Health: "The Importance of Regular Dental Visits" (https://www.nih.gov)
• Mayo Clinic: "Why Regular Dental Check-Ups Matter" (https://www.mayoclinic.org