Bad Habits that are Damaging Your Oral Health And Smile

Oral health is an important part of good health. We are often told about the bad habits that we need to quit, but what about the bad habits that can damage our oral health? Listed below are a few habits that you should avoid. 

• Nail Biting

When you bite your nails, you subject your teeth to a lot of damage. You can chip a tooth or crack a crown by chewing on hard objects such as fingernails and pens. Aside from causing damage to teeth and crowns, you also increase your risk of getting an infection in your mouth since your fingers are breeding grounds for bacteria. Your nails may also transfer dirt and germs from your hands into your mouth, which increases the risk of gum disease. If left untreated, it can progress to the point where the soft tissue and bones that surround and support your teeth become seriously damaged. This can lead to tooth loss and other serious consequences. Keep yourself safe from infection and costly treatment by visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Keep your nails short and keep them out of your mouth.

• Smoking

Nicotine and tar in cigarettes can stain your teeth and cause bad breath. Smokers tend to have more plaque buildup on their teeth than nonsmokers. Some studies suggest that smokers have an increased risk of periodontal disease as well. Research suggests that tobacco use may be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of periodontal disease.

Another serious complication of smoking is oral cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 90 percent of people with oral cancer use tobacco in some form. And more than 25 percent of all cancer deaths in the U.S. are related to tobacco use or exposure. Tobacco users are six times more likely than nonusers to develop oral cancer. So it’s extremely important for tobacco users to quit the habit. If you’re looking for help to quit smoking, visit our dentist and learn more about smoking cessation resources that are available near you. 

• Brushing Teeth Aggressively

Did you know that many people brush their teeth too harshly? Brushing your teeth too hard and too often (brushing more than three times a day) can damage the enamel and hurt the soft tissues of your mouth, leading to serious complications over time. To prevent the damage, follow these basic guidelines:

1. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. Brush twice a day for two minutes each time.
3. Replace your toothbrush every three months.
4. Use the right toothpaste.

• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Bruxism refers to the habit of grinding your teeth and clenching your jaw throughout the day. It can occur while awake or asleep. Many patients wake up with sore jaws or a dull headache as a result of bruxism. Habitual teeth grinders will damage their teeth over time. Grinding wears down the enamel, which also exposes the softer dentin underneath. This can result in tooth sensitivity, cracks in teeth, or even tooth loss. Bruxism can also lead to fractured facial bones in some cases. If you experience any of the symptoms of bruxism, you should visit your dentist. They may recommend a custom night guard to reduce the effects of bruxism, and it might also prevent other oral health issues. 

• Using Teeth As Tools

Do you have the habit of using your teeth as tools, like opening packages, tearing open bags, etc.? Stop doing it and use appropriate tools instead.

• Not Visiting The Dentist Regularly

Skipping routine dental appointments is one of the worst habits you can adopt for your oral health. Regularly scheduled dental visits are an essential part of preventive dental care.

To learn more, you can get in touch with us through online consultation or by calling us, and we'll guide you further. Call (516) 336-4902 to book an appointment at our Hicksville office and (516) 756-0111 for the Farmingdale office.