Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 6 bad habits for your teeth (according to dentists)

We all want to keep our teeth healthy and strong, but many of us may almost unconsciously harm our dental health. Here are some habits to avoid:

Chewing on hard surfaces like crunching ice or chewing on pen caps or biting your nails can damage your teeth. It wears down the enamel and creates tiny fractures that can lead to the need for crowns and even root canals. Chew sugar-free gum instead!

Excessive use of whitening products can lead to sensitivity, irritated gums and enamel thinning. It can cause permanent gum recession and even require veneers or bonding to repair the damage. It’s best to get whitening done by a professional. 

Foods high in sugar or carbs feed the bacteria in your mouth and create acid that attacks your enamel. Sudden sensitivity and/or bleeding gums can be an early warning sign. Limit snacks and choose options like cheese, raw veggies, or nuts. 

Brushing harder doesn’t mean brushing better. Too much pressure can wear down your enamel that can cause cracking and chipping. Use a soft bristled toothbrush in a gentle, circular motion and let the bristles do the work. 

Brushing immediately after a meal actually wears down enamel faster. Eating lowers the pH in your mouth. It becomes more acidic and softens the enamel. Brush before breakfast or wait 30 minutes after eating to allow saliva to restore natural pH. 

Lack of flossing is another and probably the worst thing for your oral health. Plaque and food particles build up between your teeth and under your gumline. These are places your toothbrush cannot reach. Floss once daily with waxed string floss. Floss picks, while not as effective as string, are better than nothing. 

Consistency is the key. Flossing once daily and brushing properly twice daily with fluoride toothpaste will build the foundation for your oral health. It may seem overly simple, but many long term problems can be avoided. 

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago