Bad Habits That Can Damage Your Oral Health

Bad habits can have negative effects on our bodies, including our oral health. Here are a few bad habits that can damage your teeth and gums.

Nail Biting

Chewing on fingernails or on other objects such as pencils and pens can chip away at the enamel on our teeth and expose them to bacteria. This can result in tooth sensitivity and even tooth decay. Chewing on your nails is also bad for your gums because it puts unnecessary pressure on them that can lead to damage. Over time, this can cause receding gums and, eventually, tooth loss. You are more likely to bite your nails when you are stressed or have anxiety. If your dentist discovers that you are constantly doing it, he or she can recommend a stress-relieving method to help you quit the habit for good.

Smoking

Cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. The habit of smoking is carried on by thousands of people around the world. Apart from having health consequences such as lung cancer, heart problems, and poor immunity, there are many other side effects of smoking on your oral health.

Gum disease: Smokers usually suffer from oral infections such as gum disease. These infections are caused by bacteria, and cigarette smoke weakens your immune system, which makes it difficult to fight the infection.
Cancer: Smoking also causes oral cancer, which can lead to death if not treated on time.
Dry mouth: If you don'tdon't drink enough water or if you smoke heavily, it can lead to a dry mouth. A dry mouth deprives you of essential minerals that are required for your teeth and bones to remain strong and healthy. It also leads to bad breath.
Tooth discoloration: Nicotine and tar in cigarettes can make your teeth yellow or brown in color.
Premature Aging: As smoking constricts the blood vessels, it reduces the blood flow in the body. As a result, the skin around your mouth becomes dry and paler. Many studies have shown that smoking can also cause wrinkles and premature aging.
Sensitive teeth: Smoking affects the inner layers of the teeth and causes sensitivity. You may feel extremely uncomfortable while eating/drinking hot or cold foods.
Caries: Toxins in cigarettes also cause cavities and tooth decay.

Aggressive Toothbrushing

You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, each time using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. While brushing your teeth, you should use small, gentle circular motions and aim the bristles at the gum line at a 45-degree angle. You also shouldn't brush too hard or too vigorously, as this can wear down the enamel on your teeth and cause your gums to become inflamed. It may also cause bleeding and/or receding gums, which can create pockets where bacteria can grow. Gum recession, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is an oral habit that can cause extensive damage to your teeth and mouth if left unchecked. When you grind your teeth, the enamel can chip away, exposing the inner layer of your tooth, which is called dentin. This tissue is much softer than enamel and can be more easily damaged. Over time, chronic teeth grinding can cause problems such as TMJ disorder. Additionally, clenching the teeth while you sleep puts pressure on the jaw joints, leading to joint pain or stiffness. If you grind your teeth, visit your dentist for a night guard.

Using Teeth As Tools

If you use your teeth to open packages or cut threads off clothing, you could be harming your smile. In fact, those who use their teeth as tools are six times more likely to suffer from chipped and fractured teeth compared to those who do not. To help avoid these injuries, use a tool such as scissors instead.

To find out more about the dental services offered at Ustick Dental Office, call (208) 375-8720 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit the dentist in Boise, ID, at 9733, W Ustick Rd, Boise, ID 83704.