Bad Dental Habits: Some Activities That You Should Avoid for a Great Smile

The team at Orchard D.D.S. is committed to helping patients throughout Corpus Christi achieve beautiful smiles and good overall health and wellness. This is often achieved through general dentistry procedures focused on maintaining the health of the teeth and gums.

Part of good general dentistry is prevention. We want to look at some common bad habits that negatively affect your dental health and that you should consider dropping.

Not Brushing Your Teeth Enough

Brush your teeth is crucial for good dental health, and you’d be surprised how many people simply do not brush their teeth often enough. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, though ideally you should brush your teeth after every meal.

Not Flossing Your Teeth Enough

Everyone should floss at least once a day, but sadly many people just floss occasionally. Flossing will get rid of food particles between your teeth that brushing cannot reach. Like brushing, you should ideally floss after every meal.

Brushing and Flossing Too Aggressively

Some people brush and floss the right number of times, but they do it too aggressively. Brushing too hard and flossing too hard can lead to damage of the gum tissue and result in gum recession. Be sure to brush and floss gently, and to use a brush with a small head and soft bristles.

Using Tobacco Products

Smoking and chewing smokeless tobacco increase your risk of developing cancer, lung disease, and heart disease. Tobacco products can also result in dental stains, bad breath, and gum disease. This is just another great reason to quit.

Nervous Biting and Chewing

Sometimes people bite their fingernails when they are nervous. It’s not uncommon for people to also nibble on drinking straws, chomp down on ice cubes, and chew pen caps. All of these activities can lead to tooth damage over time, such as chips and cracks. Rather than doing this, consider dropping these bad habits altogether.

Using Your Teeth Like Scissors

Many people have used their teeth to help open packages at one time or another. This is harmful to the teeth and increases the chances of a chip or crack. When a job calls for scissors, be sure to use scissors.

Snacking on Candy and Junk Food

Remember when people told you that all that sugar would rot your teeth? Turns out they were right. The oral bacteria that causes tooth decay loves carbs and sugars, so consuming candy can actually contribute to tooth decay. Think of healthier snacks free from sugar instead.

Drinking Too Much Soda

Soda can also lead to a number of dental problems. The sugar and the carbonation can damage teeth over time, giving oral bacteria a lot to feed on and weakening enamel in the process. If you’re thirsty, consider drinking water rather than soda.

Not Visiting Your Dentist Regularly

Ideally you should see your dentist twice a year, but some people go years without seeing their dentist at all. Be sure to schedule a consultation with your dentist every six months to keep your smile as healthy as possible.

Get More Information About Good Oral Hygiene

To learn more about achieving great dental health through good habits and sound oral hygiene, be sure to contact our advanced dental care center today. At Orchard D.D.S., we will work with you to ensure that your smile is as beautiful and healthy as possible.