Did you know that the enamel on your teeth is the hardest substance in your body? It’s even harder than your bones, according to the Cleveland Clinic, and its job is to protect your teeth from damage.
Still, nothing in your mouth is indestructible. Teeth can crack and break, and having them fixed can be expensive, time-consuming, and, let’s admit it, not particularly pleasant. Plus, losing a tooth can impact the way you eat, the way you speak, your self-esteem and even your quality of life, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Taking care of your teeth is important, and that goes beyond brushing twice a day and flossing. There are also certain habits that could potentially harm your dental health. From biting your nails to brushing too hard, here are some actions to avoid as you strive to keep those choppers pearly and white.
- Chewing ice. Crunching on those cold cubes is a nervous habit for some people. But chew on this: “pagophagia,” which is the name for chronic ice-chewing, is bad for your teeth and could potentially chip fillings and crowns, damage enamel and may even crack a tooth, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
- Biting your nails. Here’s another nervous habit to leave behind: according to the American Dental Association (ADA), chewing your nails may chip your teeth and be harmful to your jaw.
- Grinding your teeth. For some, grinding and clenching the teeth can be relatively harmless. But for others, it could lead to tooth damage, along with tightness or soreness in the head and face. “Bruxism” is the name given to this condition, and if your dentist notices that your teeth are affected by it, they may be able to suggest some options to help prevent more damage.
- Brushing too hard. You don’t want to brush your teeth and gums too hard or for too long, or you could cause irritation and even damage. The ADA recommends using a toothbrush with soft bristles for two minutes, twice a day, and using toothpaste with fluoride. You should also replace your toothbrush every three to four months, according to the ADA, or more frequently if you notice the bristles become matted or frayed.
- Smoking. Using tobacco products may increase your risk for a number of oral health problems, including tooth decay, gum infections and even certain types of cancer. It can also stain your teeth and cause bad breath.
- Ignoring mouthguard recommendations. Participating in sports and recreational activities, such as hockey, basketball, softball, soccer, gymnastics, cycling and ice skating, can increase a person’s risk for injuries to the mouth and face. That’s why the ADA recommends that players and participants wear properly fitted mouthguards for protection.
- Skipping routine dental appointments. Regular dentist visits are important for your teeth and your overall oral health. At each appointment, your dentist can examine your teeth, gums and mouth for signs of any problems. Talk to your dentist about how often you should make an appointment. Some people go once or twice a year, but others may need more frequent visits. As the ADA says, “there’s no one-size-fits-all to dental treatment.” If it’s been a while since you’ve seen your dentist, make an appointment for a cleaning and exam today.
