It is very easy to use your teeth to perform certain bad habits. Unconsciously, they are performed to either open things, move something forcefully back into its position or use it to manage any feelings of anxiety or stress.
Are you guilty of this? Performing bad habits that damage teeth can become counter-productive. Whilst you may perform a strong oral routine every single day, using your teeth to perform bad habits that damage teeth will override any efforts you make to keep your teeth healthy.
Below are some of the major examples of bad habits that damage teeth.
Biting Your Nails
Nail-biting naturally attributes to stress or anxiety. It may also just be a habit you’ve adopted from childhood. Biting your nails can cause wear and tear on your teeth by chipping away at its edges, damaging the natural shape of your teeth. Use a nail cutter if your nails become too long.
Opening Packaging
When trying to remove the packaging of food or objects, there is an added danger of removing a tooth out of its socket, causing trauma and sensitivity. Teeth are never designed to open anything, and if a tooth shifts out of position, this can impact your smile and cause neighbouring teeth to shift in position as well. The enamel is also in danger of becoming exposed too.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding is a condition which sometimes can’t be helped. This is because the condition can occur during sleep and through stress. Contact your dentist as soon as possible if you grind your teeth during sleep because your teeth are in danger of becoming damaged every single night. Teeth grinding can damage your enamel and cause cracks in your teeth.
Smoking And Chewing Tobacco
Smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco are habits that damage teeth and general health. Your teeth become stained along with tartar build-up. If you continue to smoke, you’re in danger of gum disease and tooth decay. It is important that you consider kicking this habit.
Skipping The Dentist
Are you avoiding visits to the dentist? This habit is actually more common than you’d think. If you’re performing a strong oral routine at home, that’s great! Although, the dentist is able to take a comprehensive view of your oral health at a check-up appointment, and perform checks in hidden areas that are not easily visible at home. Your oral health is more than just your teeth, and visiting a dental professional is highly recommended when you need to.
Do not fall foul to these bad habits as these can cause oral health issues. Maintain a strong oral routine at all times and only use your teeth for mouth functioning such as biting and chewing down on food, and keeping your jaw strong.
If you’re seeking support and advice from a professional, we at Western Sydney Smiles are ready for you. Simply contact us for a check-up today!
