Bad Habits that are Ruining Your Teeth and Gums

Good habits make our lives better. And bad habits can ruin our lives. The same goes for your oral health as well. There are a number of bad habits that can cause damage to your teeth. Listed below are a few of them.

• Nail Biting

Nail biting is a common bad habit that might seem harmless at first. But it can cause some real trouble for your teeth and gums over time. Not only can it cause wear and tear on the enamel of your teeth, but it can also cause mouth sores and even tooth loss.

If you’ve developed a nervous habit of chewing your nails, you should work to break the habit so you can protect your teeth and your overall oral health. One tip is to try keeping your hands busy by going for some stress-relieving exercises or activities when you feel the urge to bite your nails. You can also try relaxing your jaw muscles with relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing. If you still can’t break the habit on your own, talk to your orthodontist about ways to treat the issue.

• Smoking

Smoking can damage the gums and cause them to become discolored and turn gray. It can cause tooth discoloration and bad breath, as well as lead to oral cancer, gum disease, and, eventually, tooth loss. It can also affect overall health and lead to lung and heart diseases. Cigarette smoke contains over 50 chemicals, including tar and nicotine, that cling to the teeth and cause damage. So, quit the habit at the earliest. 

• Aggressive Brushing

Not flossing and not brushing properly can lead to plaque buildup on the teeth and around the gum line. Brushing the teeth aggressively can result in worn-down enamel, inflamed gums, gingivitis, and more. When brushing your teeth, make sure to do so gently and use a toothbrush with soft bristles. Brush along the gum lines in a circular motion to prevent damage and massage the gums too.

• Teeth Grinding

Many patients grind their teeth while sleeping or during times of stress. This habit can lead to worn teeth and may also result in pain in the jaw and headaches. If left untreated, tooth wear will likely progress to more serious problems such as broken teeth, lost enamel, and cracked fillings. The first step towards taking better care of your dental health is to visit your dentist for a comprehensive exam and cleaning. Your dentist can assess your condition and suggest treatment options, such as a custom mouth guard to help you stop grinding your teeth at night.

• Using Teeth As Tools

If your teeth weren’t meant to be used for cutting or tearing, then you shouldn’t use them that way. Using them as tools can greatly damage the enamel and underlying structures of the teeth, which can lead to cavities and other complications. Avoid chewing on pens, paperclips, fingernails, or any other non-food items to keep your teeth strong and healthy!

If you have been using your teeth as a tool, be sure to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to repair the damage and prevent any further issues. Your dentist will likely recommend bonding or veneers to cover up the damaged area while protecting the rest of your teeth from future trauma.

Contact Fear Free Dental in Portland, Oregon, for the best dental care. Call Dentist in Portland, OR at (503) 291-0000 or visit 4455 Sw Scholls Ferry Rd Suite 101 Portland, Oregon, 97225 to schedule an appointment.