Your teeth are designed to last for a lifetime with the right care over the years. You take care of your teeth at home and visit your dentist twice a year to ensure your smile lasts. Despite your best efforts to preserve your smile, there are certain activities you might do throughout the day that can harm your teeth. Don’t damage your smile. Here are 4 habits you need to break right now.
1. Biting Overly Hard Foods
If you have a habit of chewing on ice, biting into hard candies, or chewing on popcorn kernels, you might want to rethink what you’re doing. Biting overly hard foods significantly increases your risk of a broken or fractured tooth. Although you might get away with it a few times, repeating the habit weakens your tooth over time, raising the odds for a break or fracture down the road.
2. Using Your Teeth as Tools
Almost everyone is guilty of using their teeth to open a plastic bag, tight water cap, or tear through a package. Although it is handy to use your teeth when you can’t find scissors, a bottle opener, or another tool, it will take a toll on your teeth. Not only can it lead to a chip or fracture, but you may also loosen your teeth over time. It’s always best to choose the right tool for the job to protect your smile.
3. Sipping Coffee
It can be difficult to start your day without a warm cup of coffee. Although it will give you the kick-start you need, it can also leave a lasting impact on your smile. Coffee and other darkly pigmented foods and drinks can stain your teeth, making you appear years older than your true age. If you just can’t skip your cup of coffee in the morning, consider drinking it through a straw to limit its contact with your teeth. Be sure to rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth after you’ve finished to prevent its stain-causing properties from lingering on your teeth.
4. Smoking
We all know smoking is bad for your health, but it’s also bad for your smile. Not only can it increase the occurrence of tooth discoloration, cavities, and gum disease, but it also significantly raises your risk of oral cancer. In fact, as much as 80% of people who are diagnosed with oral cancer use a form of tobacco. It’s best to kick the habit as soon as possible to protect your mouth and body from any complications.
Enjoy a Healthy Smile for a Lifetime
You can ensure your smile lasts for a lifetime by remaining proactive about your oral health and habits. Besides caring for your teeth and gums at home, don’t forget to visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.
About Darby Creek Dental
Darby Creek Dental provides comprehensive care for patients of all ages to create generations of lasting smiles. We focus on prevention to keep the teeth and gums healthy. We’ll help you invest in your dental health with the semi-annual cleanings and checkups you need. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.