Everyday Habits that Harm Your Teeth

Everyday Habits that Harm Your Teeth

Brushing and flossing your teeth is only a single aspect of your overall oral health. If you want to enjoy health teeth and gums, it is important to avoid the following daily habits that might harm your teeth.
ThinkstockPhotos-454006559Chewing Ice
Chewing on hard items like ice puts you at a higher risk for breaking or chipping a tooth. If you love to chew on ice cubes, you might want to try to wean yourself off of this habit. Ice is incredibly strong and can easily damage your teeth.
Brushing Too Hard
Brushing is an integral aspect of your oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth too hard can actually cause damage, though. People who brush too hard might prematurely wear down enamel and bother the gums. Improper brushing might even lead to cavities. You should brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use gentle strokes to avoid these unnecessary problems.
Clenching the Jaw
A lot of people clench the jaw or grind the teeth without even realizing it. If you practice this habit when you feel stressed or anxious, you can cause a lot of wear and tear to the surface of your teeth. You might even damage some dental work that you already have.
Using Teeth to Open Packages
A lot of people use their teeth to open packages, rip off a tag, or to cut string or tape. Using your teeth in this manner could lead to cracks, though. Instead of biting off the tag the next time you buy a new article of clothing, you should use a knife or a scissor to remove it.
Dr. John R. Carson cares about the condition of your teeth and gums. He is here to help you avoid serious oral health issues and maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. Whether you need a general cleaning or a more extensive procedure, our office is here for you. To learn more about the dentist, call us at (520) 514-7203.