When it comes to your smile, certain routines and habits protect and improve your oral health, while others damage it. Certain bad dental habits put your teeth and gums at risk for infection or harm. So, we’re sharing a few habits for you to break this fall season:
- Using your teeth like scissors.
When you get a package in the mail, do you use scissors or your teeth to open it? If it’s the latter, it’s time to put a stop to this damaging habit. You risk chipping a tooth or worse by using your teeth as scissors. Go the extra mile and grab a real pair of scissors next time.
- Brushing your teeth right after a meal.
While it’s tempting to brush your teeth right away after a meal, it actually isn’t good for your teeth. The acids in the food can wear your enamel down, making your teeth more vulnerable to cavities and harmful bacteria. Instead, wait at least 30 minutes if you can. Or if you must have a fresh feeling, consider flossing instead and chewing sugarless gum.
- Skipping brushing your teeth.
If you are rushed in the morning or you’ve had a long exhausting day, it’s tempting to skip your normal toothbrushing routine. However, try to make time to brush your teeth. You’ll feel fresher and you’ll get rid of the bacteria or food particles in your mouth.
- Missing dental appointments.
While it may seem unnecessary to visit the dentist every six months, it’s actually part of what keeps oral health problems away. We’ll not only thoroughly clean your teeth and gums, but we’ll examine your mouth for any underlying issues you aren’t able to spot on your own.
- Eating too much sugar.
If you are prone to enjoying sugary treats, you are putting your teeth at risk for more cavities. Bacteria actually use sugar to create acids that attack your tooth enamel. It’s best to leave sugary treats as an occasional enjoyment, but don’t make it a regular habit.
Want to find out if your dental habits are helping or harming your smile? Call Powers Family and Implant Dentistry at 812-645-0620 to schedule an appointment in Lyons, IN or request an appointment online.
