Five Habits That Can Damage Our Dental And Gum Health

Oral health is an important part of overall health and well-being. Practicing good oral hygiene habits will help to prevent a number of dental issues. On the other hand, certain habits can affect our oral health badly. Below are some bad habits that can cause damage to your oral health.

• Smoking

Did you know that smoking can lead to oral cancer? In fact, one out of every five cases of oral cancer can be attributed to tobacco use. People who use tobacco are also much more likely to get gum disease and tooth decay than non-smokers. Quitting could save your life! Make it a goal to quit at the earliest. And if you need help quitting for good, ask us about nicotine gum or patches. They can help curb cravings and reduce the withdrawal symptoms you may experience when you quit. There are also medications available to help you kick the habit altogether. The benefits to your health will be well worth it in the long run.

• Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding — also known as bruxism — takes place when a patient forces the upper and lower jaw together. This action puts pressure on the teeth and can cause them to become worn down over time. Some patients only grind their teeth at night, while others may do it during the day as well. Patients who wake up with sore jaws may be suffering from the effects of nighttime bruxism. If your teeth are wearing down because of your teeth-grinding habit, you should talk to your dentist about ways to treat it, including wearing a mouth guard when you sleep. Mouth guards are plastic trays that sit over the top of your teeth to protect them from damage caused by bruxism. Talk to your dentist about how to choose a mouth guard that's right for you and to get fitted for one.

• Chewing Ice

Your teeth are not meant to chew on ice, and doing so can result in cracked teeth and tooth sensitivity. While you certainly want to enjoy the occasional cube of ice in your drink or on a hot summer day, do your best to avoid it if possible. In addition, you can protect your teeth by drinking cold beverages through a straw to prevent contact with your front teeth. If you are accustomed to chewing on ice cubes, ask your dentist for advice and tools to help you break this habit.

• Nail Biting

Tooth enamel is one of the strongest substances in the human body. It is not designed to withstand the pressure of biting down on hard items, such as fingernails. Enamel can also become weakened due to acid reflux disease, which can occur as a result of GERD [gastroesophageal reflux disease]. People who suffer from acid reflux often experience tooth sensitivity as a result. Even just a small amount of exposure to stomach acid can cause the enamel to weaken over time. This is why it's critical that people take care of their teeth if they have acid reflux disease. Using a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste specially formulated for people who suffer from acid erosion can help prevent the teeth from becoming damaged.

• Using Teeth As Tools

Teeth are meant to tear food apart so that it is easier to chew and swallow. They are not meant to use as tools for tearing open packages, scraping off gum stuck to shoes, or removing stickers from surfaces. People who use their teeth for these purposes can end up cracking or breaking them. This can result in the need for expensive restorative dentistry treatment, including dental crowns. A dentist may also recommend that people avoid these habits in the future to prevent problems with their teeth.

To learn more oral care habits, visit Mission Creek Family Dentistry at 9460 Cuyamaca St #101, Santee, CA 92071. Contact us at (619) 596-1128 or schedule an appointment online.