Bad Habits That Negatively Affect Your Oral Health

We all know what we should be doing daily to ensure that we have a lifetime of healthy teeth, such as thoroughly brushing twice a day and using dental floss regularly. However, you may be surprised to learn that certain things you do without realizing it are causing harm to your oral health and may eventually lead to discomfort or a dental emergency. We want to share some bad dental habits to be aware of and change:

Biting Your Nails
A common habit that affects many people is nail biting. This bad habit can cause damage to your front teeth. Not to mention, it can also introduce harmful bacteria into your mouth, possibly causing mouth sores and other illnesses.

Chewing on Ice
When finishing an ice cold drink, it can be tempting to chew on the remaining ice. While doing this may not always cause damage, it can eventually cause your rear molars to crack or break.

Using Your Teeth as Tools
It can be tempting to use your teeth to open a package, rip off a tag, or loosen a bottle cap. However, as handy as your teeth may be, it is in your best interest to take a few extra moments to get the proper tool. Using your teeth in this manner can cause your front teeth to chip and crack.

Clenching and Grinding Your Teeth
Many people are surprised to learn that they clench and grind their teeth, especially during the night. Over time, this can lead to worn and weakened enamel and cracked or broken teeth.

Snacking Throughout the Day
Eating frequently throughout the day can lead to harmful bacteria lingering on your teeth, which can eventually cause decay and the need for dental treatments. This is also true for those who drink sugary drinks throughout the day.

If you are in the Burton, MI area and are concerned that any of these bad habits have already caused damage to your teeth, please call our office to schedule an appointment. We can work together to come up with a dental plan that is right for you and your needs. We look forward to seeing you soon!