Mouth Habits To End (Now)
From brushing too hard to drinking multiple sodas a day, teeth bear the brunt of common routines. So, it’s important to be vigilant. Take the common habits below and try to implement our favorite solutions to keep your teeth, mouth and gums happy and healthy!
- Brushing Too Hard
It’s easy to take the stress of the day out on your teeth at night. But, a rough two-minute brush does serious harm to your teeth and gums. Toothbrush abrasion is a leading cause of “notching” along the gum line and of gum recession.
Solution: Always use a soft toothbrush and avoid harsh scrubbing. It’s easy to remove plaque with meticulous and regular home care: no hard brushing needed. If you find difficulty lightening up, opt for an electric brush. They’re less likely to cause damage. - Grinding and Clenching
Bruxism (grinding) and clenching, especially at night while you’re asleep, is destructive. Affecting millions of Americans, it causes tooth wear, the fracturing of dental work and muscle soreness.
Solution: If you clench during the day, try to catch yourself and stop. Remember this rule: Lips together–teeth apart! You won’t have that control while sleeping, though. If you frequently wake up with a sore mouth, invest in a night guard to protect the teeth and jaw muscles. - Using Your Teeth as Tools
Teeth are for chewing food and nothing else! There have been countless emergencies from people who use their teeth for something they weren’t intended for, like opening bags and ripping tape.
Solution: Don’t do it and find the right tool for the job. - Sugary and Acidic Drinks
Sodas and energy drinks are the biggest culprits of tooth decay. The acid eats away at your enamel and promotes an environment that bacteria love.
Solution: Drink water as often as possible. If you have an occasional soda or energy drink, consume it in one sitting and rinse with water afterward.
If you have questions regarding how to protect your teeth, don’t hesitate to ask us the next time you visit Vacendak Dentistry. Contact us at (757)-609-3510 to schedule an appointment.
