5 dental habits to avoid for better oral health
Hello! Today I want to share with you some everyday habits that are better to avoid in order to maintain optimal oral hygiene. Although they may seem harmless, these actions can damage your dental health in the long term. Below, I’ll share my experience and give you some practical tips to help improve the care of your teeth and gums
Bad Eating Habits
One of the first habits I changed was related to food. When I ate popcorn, I used to chew the hard, un-popped kernels, thinking it wasn’t an issue. Big mistake! Practices like chewing ice or other hard foods can cause fractures and micro-cracks in your teeth, weakening them over time.
Another harmful habit I had was drinking sugary fizzy drinks. These beverages are highly damaging to tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities.
To improve my dental health, I now opt for healthier snacks, like carrots or apples. Besides being nutritious, these foods help clean teeth naturally. Some people recommend using straws to reduce the contact of sugary drinks with your teeth, but I prefer to avoid them entirely; I don’t need them in my daily routine.
Additionally, brushing your teeth and using a Water Flosser after every meal is key. Personally, this has been a radical change in my oral hygiene routine and has significantly improved the health of my teeth.
Using Teeth as Tools
Another harmful practice is using teeth as tools to open packages, break seals, or remove labels. Who hasn’t done this at some point? However, these bad habits can cause serious damage, such as fractures or even tooth loss. It’s essential to remember that teeth are designed solely for chewing food, not for functioning as tools.
Teeth Grinding and Its Consequences
Bruxism, which refers to teeth grinding, is a common problem that usually originates from stress, anxiety, or misalignment of the bite. I have shared my experience with bruxism before, so here I will summarise my thoughts on the topic.
In summary, this often involuntary habit leads to excessive wear on the teeth and can cause jaw problems, as well as headaches. To address this issue, it is recommended to use a night guard. This device helps relieve pressure and prevent dental wear.
Additionally, it is essential to implement strategies to reduce stress, such as relaxation techniques and meditation exercises. Decreasing caffeine intake and avoiding chewing on non-food items are also effective measures. One practical tip is to place the tip of your tongue between your teeth to prevent involuntary grinding. Likewise, applying a warm towel to the jaw can help relax the muscles and relieve tension.
Incorrect Use of Toothbrushes
Another common mistake is using a toothbrush with hard bristles. I used to think it cleaned better, but in reality, this type of brush can damage the gums and increase dental sensitivity.
It is crucial to choose a toothbrush with soft or medium bristles and to consult a dentist to determine which one is most suitable for our specific needs.
Brushing should be gentle, ensuring that all surfaces of the teeth are covered, including the gum line and hard-to-reach areas. An electric toothbrush can be an excellent option, as many models come equipped with pressure sensors that prevent excessively aggressive brushing.
Inadequate Oral Hygiene
Finally, the fifth habit that needs correcting is neglecting your oral hygiene routine, which includes not brushing your teeth, not using a water flosser, and not rinsing properly. It is essential to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to replace your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every three to four months. Daily use of a water flosser is crucial for removing food debris and plaque between the teeth, where the brush cannot reach.
Mouth rinses also play a key role in dental hygiene. Antiseptic mouthwashes help eliminate bacteria and prevent bad breath, while fluoride rinses strengthen enamel and help prevent cavities. It’s important to choose a rinse that suits your needs and use it as a complement to brushing and flossing, not as a substitute. So, now you know, avoiding these bad habits can make a significant difference in your dental health. Take care of your smile!
