Contrary to what people in North Carolina believe in, there is more to keeping your mouth healthy than brushing twice and flossing once a day. Your teeth are an important part of your body and they require special attention. Certain lifestyle habits can be more harmful than you think. To ensure your teeth remain in their best state, visit your Cary, NC dentist regularly.
Five things you should stop doing to your teeth.
- Use it as a tool.
Using your teeth as a tool for minor tasks may seem convenient, however, it can cause them significant damage. People often use their molars or front teeth when they want to open a bottle of wine right away. You must stop doing this. It can cause your teeth to chip or crack and make dental visits necessary. Keep tools like bottle openers and scissors in your drawers where you can easily get them.
- Not flossing.
Many people do not take flossing seriously and tend to skip it. However, this habit is very important for your teeth to stay healthy and shiny. Your tooth consists of five layers and brushing only reaches three of the surfaces. The remaining surfaces can accumulate plaque and lead to various complications like gum disease, cavities, etc. Therefore, it is very crucial to floss your teeth regularly and clean the whole area to avoid bacteria buildup and promote a healthy mouth.
- Drinking a lot of soda.
Soft drinks may seem harmless, however, consuming them on a daily basis can severely affect your teeth. Soda and soft drinks have high sugar levels. Consuming them excessively can form decay causing sugar layers on your teeth which can cause cavities. Limit the number of cans you are sipping per day and do not forget to brush your teeth after you have them.
- Brushing immediately after eating something acidic.
There is a saying that it is never too late soon to brush your teeth. However, this is not always true. Acidic juices like wine or citrus can weaken your enamel. And brushing immediately after consuming such items can damage the soft enamel. Wait for about 30-40 minutes, then brush your teeth. It will allow the saliva to generate and re-harden your tooth enamel.
- Chew on hard objects.
Regularly chewing on hard objects can cause your teeth to chip and damage them. Despite the fact that enamel is the hardest substance in your body, constant pressure through chewing or biting can affect it. It can also cause infection to the soft tissues in your mouth. Therefore, avoid chewing on ice or other hard objects as much as possible.
If you feel pain in your mouth while eating or biting something, visit a dentist for a checkup today!