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There are many factors that go into maintaining a beautiful, healthy smile—from daily brushing and flossing to seeing your dentist twice a year. Making these practices second-nature keeps your mouth healthy; however, it is equally essential to avoid other habits that can be detrimental to teeth and gums. Learn what not to do below.

What Parts of Your Daily Routine Can Harm Your Dental Health?

1. Aggressive Tooth Brushing

Aggressive back-and-forth brushing wears down tooth enamel to increase the risk of decay. It also causes gum tissue to recede, increasing your susceptibility to gum disease and tooth loss. Instead, use a soft-bristled brush to further avoid tooth and gum damage. Brush for two minutes twice a day using gentle circular and up-and-down motions.

2. Smoking

If you’re a smoker, you likely already know the ill effects this habit can have. Tobacco stains teeth, irritates the gums, inflames the salivary glands, and increases your risk of oral lesions and cancer. Smokers are also at a higher risk for tooth decay than non-smokers because cigarettes compromise saliva production, leaving teeth more vulnerable to acids and plaque. Therefore, think hard about quitting—and see your dentist regularly for check-ups to catch warning signs of problems early.

3. Teeth Grinding

dentistSome people, suffering from stress or sleep apnea or who have an uneven bite, grind their teeth at night in a habit referred to as bruxism. This not only increases the risk of fractures and chips, but it also stresses the jaw, resulting in jawbone hinge pain and headaches. Talk to your dentist if you are experiencing these symptoms; they can fit you for a custom mouthguard to wear while you sleep that will prevent you from clenching your teeth and causing more damage.

4. Chewing Ice

While chewing ice may seem like a harmless habit, frozen water can fracture teeth in addition to injuring sensitive gum tissue. Chewing ice is also problematic if you recently had dental work because it can damage crowns, bridges, and dental implants. Instead, opt for crunchy foods that benefit teeth, such as apples or celery.

 

Need a quality dentist to look after your smile? Turn to Stadler Dental Care. Dr. Andrew Stadler has served patients throughout Columbus, NE, and the surrounding areas since 2000, offering teeth cleanings and fillings, cosmetic dentistry, oral cancer screenings, and oral surgery, among other services. Call (402) 564-4093 today to make your appointment or learn more about what the dentist provides online. Follow Dr. Stadler on Twitter to add dental health tips to your feed.

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