Bad Dental Habits That You Should Avoid

Patients in and around Boston know they can count on Dental Associates of New England for their dental care needs. Offering advanced cosmetic dentistry as well as general and restorative treatments, the dentists at the practice are able to address tooth decay, gum disease, and more serious dental problems.

Part of good dental health is proper prevention, which also means the do's and don'ts of oral hygiene. With that in mind, let's consider a few bad habits that patients should avoid if they want to have a healthy smile.

Smoking and Using Smokeless Tobacco

Smoking and the use of chewing tobacco can lead to a number of serious health issues, including lung disease and heart disease. Tobacco products can also increase your risk of developing oral cancer while staining the teeth and making you more susceptible to gum disease. These are all compelling reasons to quit or to not start in the first place.

Drinking Too Much Soda

Soda is bad for your dental health. The sugar can lead to tooth decay and the carbonation can make acidic enamel erosion more likely. In general, it's best to drink water to quench your thirst. Limit your soda intake as much as possible.

Snacking on Candy and Junk Food

The oral bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease loves feasting on carbs and sugars. If you snack on candy and junk food, you're giving that oral bacteria extra fuel to do damage to your teeth. Only eat junk food occasionally, and consider healthier snacking options that are low on sugar.

Biting Your Fingernails

Biting your fingernails isn't just a social faux pas. This bad habit can do damage to your teeth, making chips and cracks more likely. Do your best to avoid doing this.

Chewing on Hard or Inedible Objects

Many people chew on pen caps, ice cubes, drinking straws, or other kinds of hard and inedible objects when they are nervous. This may seem harmless, but over time it can cause tooth damage. Break the habit for your health.

Using Your Teeth Like a Pair of Scissors

People sometimes use their teeth to open packages. This is just as likely to cause tooth damage as nibbling on a straw or your fingernails. Be sure to use scissors when a job calls for scissors.

Not Brushing Regularly

Brushing at least twice a day is crucial if you want to avoid tooth decay and gum disease. Ideally you should brush your teeth after every meal.

Not Flossing Regularly

Flossing gets at the hard-to-reach parts of the mouth that your toothbrush cannot reach. Be sure to floss at least once a night. Ideally, like brushing, consider flossing after every meal.

Not Visiting Your Dentist Regularly

People should visit their dentist twice a year for regular checkups. And yet many people do not manage to see their dentist that frequently. Be sure to schedule a visit with your dentist if you're overdue for a routine visit or have not seen a dentist in a long while.

Learn More About Your Options for Advanced Dental Treatment

For more information about your dental options, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. The entire team at our practice looks forward to your visit and helping you have the most beautiful smile possible.