Many of us indulge in habits that have a negative effect on our oral health. Habits like poor oral hygiene, bad diet, etc., can all wreak havoc on our teeth. Here are a few bad habits that are bad for our oral health.
At our office, we see a lot of patients who don't understand the importance of brushing their teeth daily. Poor oral hygiene habits like not brushing or flossing the teeth regularly can cause tooth decay and gum disease, which can eventually lead to tooth loss if left untreated for too long. In addition, poor oral hygiene can also cause bad breath and other issues in our mouths that can cause us to feel self-conscious about ourselves. No one should live with embarrassment because of the condition of their mouth – especially when it is entirely preventable!
Everyone should floss their teeth regularly to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth. Unfortunately, more than 40 percent of American adults do not regularly floss their teeth. This means that a majority of them are probably not getting the full cleaning that they should be getting from their teeth. When food particles and plaque sit on our teeth for too long, they can cause tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. If gum disease is allowed to progress, it can also lead to tooth loss, infections, and other serious issues.
The toothpaste you use should contain fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and prevents decay. However, if you brush with too much toothpaste, the fluoride can actually damage your teeth. You shouldn't use more than a small pea-sized amount of toothpaste each time you brush your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and be sure to be gentle as you brush. Too much force can actually wear down your enamel and make your teeth more susceptible to decay.
Cigarettes are harmful in many ways, including your oral health. The chemicals in tobacco can damage your gums and teeth; smoking also makes it more difficult for your body to fight infection and heal after surgery. Furthermore, patients who smoke are more likely to have gum disease, which can increase the risk of tooth loss. Not to mention the increased risk of developing oral cancers and other cancers. Smokers tend to develop more cavities, too, especially on the posterior teeth and the roof of the mouth. So talk to your periodontist about your options for quitting. There are resources that can help!
While coffee and tea are refreshing beverages, they can be very problematic for oral health. This is because both beverages are very acidic. These acids can break down tooth enamel and leave teeth more vulnerable to decay over time. It's best to drink these beverages in moderation and try to choose more neutral liquids instead. Water is the best option since it's not only safe for your teeth, but it can help keep you hydrated as well. Other good beverage options that work include milk, orange juice, and other fruit juices. If you do enjoy coffee or tea, be sure to consume them along with a meal, as this can help minimize the acid erosion effects. Be sure to brush your teeth after you consume either of these beverages to help remove any lingering acids from the surface of your teeth.
Enhanced Smiles, located in Tukwila, WA, offers the best dental care facilities at dentistry. Dial (206) 575-1000 and book an appointment with our dentist in Tukwila to learn more about dental restorative dental services and other dental care facilities.
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