You visit your dentist twice per year and brush your teeth twice per day to keep your teeth healthy. However, your dental care might not be as perfect as you think. Some daily habits that seem harmless can actually put you at risk for cavities and tooth damage. Ditch the following habits to keep your teeth as healthy as possible.

Avoid These Habits for Healthier Teeth

1. Drinking Soda

There is nothing like a cold soda or sports drink on a hot day. However, these sugary beverages are likely doing more harm than good. The average can of cola has 49 grams of sugar, far over the recommended daily value. When consumed often, these drinks can increase your risk of cavities and tooth decay. 

2. Using Your Teeth to Open Items

You might use your teeth to rip and tear when you can’t get a stubborn package open. While this may seem convenient, doing so can easily harm your teeth. They can chip or crack, requiring emergency dental care. Instead of relying on your pearly whites, reach for a pair of scissors or a bottle opener in your kitchen. 

3. Chewing Ice

Munching on ice can satisfy your thirst, but it can also harm your dental health. In some cases, a hard crunch can break or chip a tooth. This habit can also cause small cracks to form in the enamel, causing sensitivity over time. If you’re craving a cold fix, opt for cold water or unsweetened ice tea instead. 

4. Eating Sticky Candy

While gummies and sticky candy are fine to enjoy once in a while, eating these treats should not be a daily habit. The sticky residue can get stuck between your teeth and become difficult to remove. If the sugar stays in place, it can form a cavity or decay. When you do eat sticky candy, be sure to thoroughly brush and floss your teeth after. 

5. Forgetting Your Mouthguard

If you play a contact sport, it might not seem like a big deal if you forget a mouthguard one day. However, playing football, basketball, hockey, and lacrosse without a mouthguard can leave you vulnerable to tooth damage. A flying ball or collision with another player can chip or even knock out your tooth. To avoid a mishap, always keep several backup mouthguards in your sports bag. If you don’t use a mouthguard at all, talk to your dental care provider about getting fitted for one. 

The right dentist can help you stay on track with your dental care habits. This is why residents in Fishersville, VA, trust the team at Drs Bradford and Catchings Family Dentistry. Dr. Bradford, Dr. Catchings, and their staff provide general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry to fit your family’s needs. From routine checkups to dental implants, they perform all procedures with the most current technologies. To view a full list of their services, visit them online. You can also call (540) 213-1966 to make an appointment.