Habits That Can Harm Your Teeth

Bad habits, we all have them, and we all wish we could stop them. Some of our nasty habits may be doing more harm than the obvious and may be doing damage to your teeth. We will talk about a few of those here; it may be the extra push you need to stop once and for all!

Nail biting, experts tell us that this most often occurs during puberty, but an estimated one-third of all adults continue to bite! If you are a nail biter, then we are sure you have heard all of the many reasons you should quit, but you may not have heard this one. Nail biting can chip your teeth! You may also be at risk for jaw dysfunction, by protruding your jaw for extended periods of time as nail biters often do. Stopping now will not only give you great looking nails it may save your smile.

Smoking, we all know that smoking is bad for our health. Smoking can cause many serious diseases, some fatal. What some people don’t know is that smoking is bad for your teeth. Not only does it cause staining it can cause tooth loss, gum disease, and oral cancer. Be tobacco free, and you will be smiling for life. If you are looking for help to quit visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Be Tobacco Free Website at:https://betobaccofree.hhs.gov/campaigns/index.html

Nonstop snacking, if your snacking is constant and includes starchy, sugary snacks and drinks you are setting yourself and your smile up for a higher risk of cavities. Bacteria in your mouth feasts on left over food, then an acid is produced that attacks your teeth. Be sure and drink water, not soda and drinks with sugar and brush if you can. Also visit your dentist regularly to keep your smile in tip top shape!

Many habits can spell trouble for your teeth, chewing on ice, gummy candy, bottles at bedtime, grinding are just a few. Understanding what triggers them can be the first step to quitting them. It takes time, don’t give up; we know you can do it!