Everyday habits, including simple eating, contribute to tooth (and restoration) wear. Over time, your enamel breaks down, putting your teeth at risk of decay and even fractures.
To help combat the daily wear and tear, it’s important to:
- Visit my dental office regularly for checkups and teeth cleanings.
- Brush and floss your teeth at least twice daily.
- Curb some of the bad habits I’ll share in this blog.
Keeping Your Teeth Healthy: Habits to Avoid
According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly half of all Americans have gum disease, and almost ten percent have advanced disease.
Conditions like tooth decay and gum disease are preventable, but it’s important to curb bad habits alongside regular dental care and excellent oral hygiene.
Here are a few everyday habits to avoid:
- Brushing After Eating: Brushing and flossing immediately after eating will clear some debris from the teeth, but you’re also more likely to move the food around and redistribute active acids, which can erode the enamel. Wait a little while and prepare your smile for brushing and flossing. Drink some water or rinse to help set the stage.
- Bruxism: Teeth grinding and clenching can occur during sleep, so you may need a nightguard to protect your smile.
- Acidic or Sugary Foods and Drinks: Frequent snacking or a diet high in sugar and acidity causes tooth decay. Over time, you can develop a tooth infection and even gum disease.
- Chewing on Pens or Other Items: Chewing on anything other than food can put your teeth at serious risk for wear and even fractures.
- Smoking or Tobacco Use: Smoking and tobacco use are common culprits in tooth discoloration, oral cancers, and gum disease.
As a Greeley dentist, I aim to help my patients enjoy healthy smiles for life, and I can provide more customized tips based on your oral health profile.
Schedule Your Next Dental Exam and Teeth Cleaning in Greeley, CO
To learn more about my treatments and services or to schedule your next appointment, call my dental team today at (970) 353-5664.