10 Habits That Wreck Your Teeth
The nation is in the midst of a dental crisis. According to the Dental News Network, there are over 130 million Americans with no dental coverage. Indeed, it is estimated that only 2 % of older Americans have dental coverage, according to a report published by Oral Health America.
Consequently, an awareness of common habits that are unhealthy for your teeth is critically important.
The following habits can wreck your teeth, and possibly endanger your overall health:
•Using your Teeth as a Tool. Some folks routinely use their teeth to open bottle tops, or bite through papers, bags or plastics. Bad idea: Teeth can crack and previous dental work can be ruined.
•Chewing on Ice. Crunching on ice cubes can seem like a harmless habit. Be careful, the cold and hardness of the cubes can cause damage to your teeth. Try cool water instead.
•Drinking Soda. Soda is high in sugar and acid. Daily consumption of one or more sodas bathes your teeth in decay-causing sugary fluid. Reach for a glass of water instead.
•Nail Biting. In addition to endangering your health by introducing germs and viruses, nail biting can cause your teeth to move out of place and can cause the splintering of tooth enamel.
•Oral Piercings. Various sorts of metal oral piercings to the lips and tongue are increasingly common, especially among younger folks. Piercings can be damaging to your teeth, fillings and gums. It is better to avoid or remove these adornments.
•Improper Brushing. Some people brush too vigorously. This can lead to worn down enamel and gum irritation. It is better to brush deliberately and gently, with a soft-bristle brush.
•Junk Foods. Consumption of starchy snacks (chips, pretzels and the like) can produce a buildup of partially chewed food between the teeth, providing a breeding ground for bacteria. Minimize your consumption of junk foods for the good or your health.
•Chewing on Pencils. Pencil chewing can cause wear to the teeth. It is especially harmful if you already have preexisting dental issues.
•Tooth Grinding. Excessive pressures from this habit can cause micro-fractures in your teeth, leading to additional dental problems. If you grind while sleeping consider using a mouth guard at night.
•Coffee. Be mindful that coffee will stain your teeth with prolonged use. The acid in coffee can damage your tooth enamel as well. Proper brushing after drinking your morning beverage can minimize these effects.
