Posted by Jeffrey S. Kleinheinz on Dec 22 2022, 07:15 AM
Bad habits like nail biting, smoking, teeth grinding, biting on hard objects, using teeth as tools, not visiting a dentist regularly, etc., can have a negative impact on our oral health. Read on to learn more about such habits.
Nail biting is a bad habit that can cause tooth and gum damage over time. When you bite your nails, you can cause your teeth to shift out of alignment and even crack them. It’s also very easy to accidentally rip or tear your gums while biting your nails. This can potentially result in infection and inflammation. Avoid biting your nails to protect your oral health. If you have a hard time overcoming this bad habit, try wearing a mouth guard at night to help stop you from doing it while you sleep.
When you don’t visit the dentist regularly, it’s much easier for plaque buildup to occur on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky substance that can eventually harden into tartar if it’s not removed through a good dental hygiene routine. While regular cleanings and exams can help to prevent plaque buildup, you should try your best to visit the dentist at least twice a year. This way, you’re more likely to keep your mouth in the best condition possible and prevent cavities and other serious issues from happening.
Tobacco products can cause cancer in the mouth and throat. It can also cause gum disease, tooth loss, and tooth decay. It stains the teeth and causes bad breath. It also has a negative impact on the body’s immune system.
Smokers are more likely to develop oral cancer than nonsmokers. Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of oral cancer that is linked to tobacco usage. The risk of developing this cancer is six times higher for smokers compared to nonsmokers. Additionally, the smoke from tobacco products dries out the oral tissue, causing irritation on the surface of the tongue. It also decreases saliva production. Saliva helps wash away food debris from the mouth and prevent bacteria buildup. If there is not enough saliva, plaque can build up and lead to further oral health issues. People who smoke are more likely to have yellow teeth and are at a higher risk for periodontal disease. If the condition is left untreated, the gum and bone will continue to recede. This will loosen the teeth and eventually lead to tooth loss. If you are a smoker, quit the habit at the earliest.
When patients brush their teeth too aggressively, they risk damaging their teeth and gums. Over-brushing can cause receding gums and enamel erosion over time. Enamel is the hard outer layer of your teeth that protects the softer tissue underneath. If the enamel is worn away, this allows bacteria to come in contact with your sensitive gum tissue and cause infection. This is why it is important to brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to get a clear and healthy smile.
To reduce the risk of over-brushing, talk to your dentist about your oral hygiene habits. A dentist can also recommend the best type of toothpaste and toothbrush for your oral health.
Many people grind their teeth at night without realizing it, but they wake up with headaches and sore jaws. This condition is called bruxism or tooth grinding. It puts a lot of pressure on your teeth and can chip them around the edges. It can also wear down tooth enamel, making it easier for bacteria to erode the teeth and cause cavities.
If you suspect that you clench your jaws or grind your teeth while you sleep, talk to your dentist about getting fitted for a mouth guard. This will protect your teeth from pressure caused by grinding. It will also cushion the jaw joints to protect them from discomfort and inflammation.
Despite wanting good oral health, most people choose to neglect their visits to the dentist’s office. However, regular check-ups are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Most dentists recommend scheduling an appointment every six months for preventive dental care. They should also perform an oral exam and professional cleaning every six months to prevent gum disease and cavities. Regular appointments are especially important if patients have poor oral hygiene habits or have problems such as crooked teeth that may require corrective treatment. Without proper dental treatment, patients may suffer from oral problems that could affect not only their appearance but also their health in general.
If you have not been to the dentist for years, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment! Our team is happy to help you maintain a healthy smile for your best quality of life.
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