Nice Teeth Aren’t An Accident

Posted on: 5 October 2015

Having a healthy mouth is more than just brushing and flossing regularly. In order to have a healthy mouth, you need to develop good habits—such as going to the dentist regularly. While it might seem odd, some lifestyle factors can easily contribute to cavities and other oral problems. So if you practice any of these four habits on a daily basis, stop immediately.

1. Indulging In Sour Foods and Drinks

Some people enjoy eating sour foods, such as lemons, as a snack. While lemons are healthy for you, they aren't necessarily good for your teeth. This is because they are very acidic, and acid hurts your teeth. If you frequently snack on lemons, or other sour fruits, foods, or beverages, you are repeatedly exposing your teeth to acid. Over time, the acid can build up and cause problems with your tooth enamel. So if you can't ditch the lemons, eat them in moderation.

2. Brushing Too Hard and Too Often

Another problem that might actually be hurting your teeth is one you wouldn't normally think of. However, brushing your teeth too hard or too often can actually be detrimental to your oral health. Brushing too hard or too often can wear down the enamel of your teeth. It can also make your teeth more likely to be sensitive to hold, cold, or sweet items.

The best way to avoid this is to invest in a toothbrush with soft bristles; that way you won't be brushing hard, even if you use a lot of pressure. In addition, make sure you only brush your teeth two to three times per day; as you don't need to brush after every meal or drink.

3. Using Teeth To Open Things

Put simply, your teeth and mouth are not designed to be used as a tool. While it might be easy to open things with your mouth, you shouldn't. Doing this is hard on your teeth and overtime, it might even lead to an injury. So if you find yourself using your mouth to open bags or soda cans, stop and use a hand tool.

4. Biting Your Nails

Another common, but bad habit for your teeth, is nail biting. A lot of people bite their nails in times of stress or boredom and it might not seem like a problem, but it is. Biting your nails can damage your teeth because you are essentially using them like a tool. It can also cause a host of health problems, as you are inviting outside bacteria into your body. So try to ditch the habit—your mouth, teeth, and body will thank you.

While it might not seem like these habits are hurting your teeth, they are—even if you don't experience problems immediately. By stopping these habits and visiting a dentist like Ann L Ortega DDS regularly, you will have a healthier mouth—and a healthier body.