There are a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to maintaining a luminous smile. For example, do see your dentist every six months, and don’t consume snacks and beverages that contain high levels of sugar, which could fuel harmful bacteria. Here are a few other bad habits to kick so that you can protect your pearly whites for decades to come.

3 Habits That Affect Your Oral Health

1. Over Brushing

While brushing in the morning and evening is ideal, you shouldn’t do it after every meal and snack. Brushing too often and too hard can erode the protective tooth enamel and irritate the gums, which can cause decay and disease. To prevent gum recession, use slow, gentle strokes, and opt for a soft-bristled brush.

2. Eating Ice

If you bite on an ice cube at the wrong angle, you could chip, crack, or fracture a tooth. You should also avoid chewing common objects, like pens, pencils, and toothpicks, and using your teeth as tools when opening packages. If chewing ice is a nervous tic, pop a piece of sugar-free gum or order drinks without ice until you kick the habit.

3. Grinding

If you often wake up with a headache or sore jaw, it may be because you grind your teeth at night. Also called bruxism, grinding can contribute to the rapid deterioration of enamel, making the teeth far more vulnerable to damage and decay. If you grind your teeth, ask your dentist if you can be fitted for a custom mouthguard to wear while you sleep.

Postponing dental cleanings is another bad habit that can affect your oral health. If you’re due for an appointment, turn to Nelson Hatanaka, DDS, in Honolulu, HI. Since 1983, this friendly family dentist has provided comprehensive services, including routine exams and cleanings, to patients of all ages across Oahu. Read the latest patient reviews on Yelp, or call (808) 395-1922 to make a dentist appointment.