It’s often easy to get into bad habits and you may not even realize that what you’re doing is bad. Some bad habits can have a negative effect on your teeth and cause you to have major dental problems. Read the information below to learn five bad dental habits you need to stop before you ruin your smile.

Grinding Your Teeth

Many people grind their teeth because they’re stressed or feeling anxious. Some people only grind their teeth while they’re sleeping and they don’t even realize what they’re doing. If you grind your teeth, it’s important that you take steps to stop it as soon as possible. When people grind their teeth, it causes them to wear down and it can also cause them to crack or fracture. If you grind your teeth because of stress, visit a dentist office to inquire about exercises that can help you break this bad habit. If you’re a night grinder, consider wearing a mouthguard while sleeping.

Brushing With The Wrong Toothbrush

It’s great if you regularly brush your teeth but if you’re using the wrong toothbrush, that’s not great. There are many toothbrushes on the market and the best kind for your teeth are the ones that have soft bristles. Medium and hard-bristled toothbrushes are often too severe for mature adults to use. People who have gum sensitivity or receding gums should always use a soft toothbrush so they don’t further irritate their gums. If your teeth bleed a lot after you brush, you may need to change your toothbrush.

Using Your Teeth Instead Of A Tool

It’s sometimes tempting to use your teeth to open a package or twist off a bottle cap instead of searching for a tool first, but this bad habit can really wreck your teeth. The enamel that’s on the surface of the teeth is definitely hard, but it’s no match for hard objects that can damage your teeth. Common types of tooth damage that can occur include chipping a tooth or causing it to crack. To keep your smile intact, take the time to grab a tool instead of using your teeth.

Crunching or Chewing On Hard Foods

If you have the habit of chewing on ice cubes or other hard foods, you’re causing damage to your teeth. Crunching hard foods can ruin tooth enamel and cause your teeth to crack. This bad habit can also cause damage to dental work by dislodging tooth fillings and shattering veneers. Types of hard foods that you shouldn’t chew or bite down on including hard candy, kernels of popcorn and pistachio shells.

Skipping Brushing and Flossing Your Teeth

You’ve probably heard how important it is to brush and floss your teeth regularly but if you’ve been slacking lately you’re ruining your smile. Brushing and flossing your teeth removes harmful acids and starches that cause teeth to decay. Once your teeth begin the process of decay, you must visit a dentist before you lose your teeth permanently. Start good habits by brushing your teeth at least twice every day and flossing once a day.

If you have any of these bad dental habits, it’s best to stop them as soon as possible. Adults should set good examples for children and refrain from bad dental habits in front of little ones. If you don’t take care of your teeth, you’ll lose your beautiful smile and you may eventually lose your teeth.

What are your favorite dental care tips?

Share your thoughts and comments with us.

“PIN & SHARE”