Habits that Can Damage Your Dental Health

Just about everyone wants a healthy and attractive smile, but not everyone puts in the work and commitment to ensure that they maintain that kind of smile. Dr. John P. Goodman offers general dentistry services to help patients maintain good oral health, but at-home care is important, too. A lack of a good oral hygiene routine, the neglect of professional dental care, and the practice of poor dental habits can all put the teeth at risk. Unfortunately, many people do not even realize the harm that they may be causing their teeth. There are several common bad dental habits that we see in our Kansas City patients, many of whom do not know that these habits are putting the structure and health of the teeth at risk.

Poor Dental Habits

There are many habits that can have a negative impact on the health of the teeth. While some of these habits may seem obviously damaging, some may not. It is important to know the impact that these poor dental habits can have on the strength and structure of the teeth. Below are some common habits that may be negatively affecting your oral health:

• Chewing on ice: Many people finish off an ice-cold beverage and immediately begin chewing on the ice. While this might not seem to be a big deal, the cold temperature of the ice, combined with its brittleness, is potentially damaging to the teeth. This habit can break down tooth enamel and can even lead to tooth fractures.
• Teeth grinding: Another habit that is damaging to the structure of the teeth is teeth grinding, or teeth clenching. This puts excessive force on the teeth, and can wear down tooth enamel, causing chips or cracks. When the tooth enamel worn down, it makes it easier for bacteria to work its way to the center of the tooth, increasing the risk of decay and infection.
• Using the teeth as tools: Have you ever opened a can or bottle with your teeth? It may not seem like this could cause too much harm, but the teeth are not meant to be tools. This kind of force can easily break a tooth.
• Smoking: Smoking is known to be bad for your health, but many do not realize the toll it can take on the teeth and gums. Smoking and tobacco use can lead to tooth discoloration, gum disease, and oral cancer.
• Improper brushing and flossing techniques: It is not only important to brush and floss regularly, but to use the proper techniques when doing so. If patients fail to access all surface areas of the tooth, plaque and tartar can accumulate. Additionally, if excessive force is used when brushing the teeth or patients brush with a hard-bristled toothbrush, the teeth can actually suffer damage.

By avoiding these bad dental habits, patients can help to protect the strength and structure of their teeth.

Schedule an Appointment

Routine professional dental care can teach you proper dental habits and oral hygiene techniques, preserve the health of the teeth and gums, and help in the prevention of serious dental problems. If you are looking for a trusted and experienced dentist to care for the health of your teeth, look no further than Dr. John P. Goodman. Schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience to learn more about his comprehensive range of dental services. We look forward to hearing from you.