5 Common Habits That Are Hurting Your Teeth

There’s much more to a healthy mouth than just brushing your teeth and flossing everyday. In fact, there may be a few unhealthy habits you’re falling into without realizing that can be contributing to tooth damage. This is why we have gathered 5 common habits that are hurting your teeth in order for you to never commit them again!

1. Brushing too hard

Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes is the main oral health tip to install in your routine. However, be careful when you do so since brushing too hard is one of the most common habits that hurt your teeth.

Using a hard toothbrush or too much strength can result in gum irritation and tooth damage. It is recommended to always use a soft bristle brush and approach the task as one that is “massaging” rather than “scrubbing”.

2. Nail biting

Nail biting isn’t just bad for your hands, it can also be hurting your smile by causing strain on your jaw and chipping away at your teeth. It is recommended that, if you bite your nails, you find other ways to deal with stress and anxiety by reducing the triggering factors and setting small, realistic goals towards ending this nasty habit.

3. Using teeth as tools

Teeth were meant only for eating, and not to be used as scissors, bottle openers or other types of tools. Whenever you do this, you’re putting yourself at risk of cracking and chipping your teeth, and even injuring your jaw or swallowing something you shouldn’t have.

4. Constant snacking

Snacking all day, especially on sugary foods and drinks, puts you at a high risk of cavities. The bacteria guilty of causing them eats the leftover food hanging around your teeth, which produces an acidic reaction and in turn damages your enamel.

If you can’t help but to snack, try to do so on low fat and low sugar foods, and follow any sugary treats with a big glass of water to wash it all up.

5. A diet of cigarettes, coffee, wine and sugary cola:

Smoking is not only bad for your overall health but actually stains and debilitates your teeth. Similarly, continuously drinking wine, coffee and sugary, dark cola drinks will expose your teeth to acid and sugar, and put you at greatest risk of cavities and teeth staining.

Now that you’re aware of these 5 common habits that are hurting your teeth, this is your opportunity to stop them from taking part in your daily life and start taking better care of your smile. A regular dentist checkup and daily oral care routine will keep you on the right track of perfect oral health.