With proper care your teeth are designed to last a lifetime. But bad habits can really take a toll on your teeth, such as grinding and improper brushing. Tooth decay, fractured teeth, gum disease, and even tooth loss are just a few of the negative consequences that result from bad oral habits. Here are a look at some common habits that can hurt your oral health and some easy ways to stop these behaviors.

 

Aggressive Brushing – Brushing your teeth too hard can rub away your tooth’s enamel and irritate your gums.

Teeth Grinding – If you are guilty of grinding or clenching your teeth, you may be hurting your teeth and jaw. Grinding can lead to TMJ issues, severe headaches and fractured teeth over time.

Excessive Snacking – Snacking on food all day,especially snacks that contain high sugar, can wreak havoc on your teeth. Choosing to snack on food all day can break down the enamel and produces cavities.

Using Teeth Like Tools – There may be times it is convenient to quickly rip open a bag of potato chips with your teeth, but treating teeth like scissors can lead to fractured, chipped, or even lost teeth.

Using Tobacco – Smoking and other tobacco products are not only bad for your health, they are bad for your teeth as well! People who smoke are at a greater risk for cavities and gum disease.

 

Put An End To Bad Oral Habits

• Practice proper brushing techniques
• If you grind your teeth, get a night guard
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Do not smoke
• Do not use your teeth as scissors

 

Contact Us

Do not let bad oral habits ruin your teeth. Before any of your bad habits turn into major issues, take the necessary steps now to stop. If you need help addressing your oral habits or want to learn more about treatment for existing dental issues, we can help! Contact Fairfield Periodontics today at 203.878.8596 .