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When you go for a teeth cleaning, your dentist will likely remind you to brush, floss, and avoid sugary foods and drinks. However, you may not be aware that a number of seemingly harmless habits can also damage your pearly whites. Below are four of the most common.

Surprising Habits That Are Bad for Your Teeth 

1. Brushing After a Meal

While any dentist will be happy to hear that you’re brushing your teeth multiple times a day, they won’t be as thrilled if you tell them that you’re brushing after meals. Acidic foods such as tomatoes and citrus fruits will temporarily soften the protective enamel on your teeth. If you brush vigorously during this time, you risk wearing away the enamel and weakening your teeth. It’s best to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing after a meal.

2. Drinking Lemon Water

DentistLemon is a highly acidic fruit that can eat away at tooth enamel, so drinking water flavored with lemons or limes can harm your teeth over time. If you’re in the habit of drinking multiple glasses of lemon water a day, consider cutting down or switching to unflavored water.

3. Chewing Ice Chips

Chomping on ice chips may feel like a great way to stay hydrated while satisfying the urge to chew. While water certainly isn’t bad for your teeth, hard ice is. Chewing on ice can create small cracks in your tooth enamel and damage existing dental work like crowns or bridges.

4. Opening Items With Your Teeth

While using your teeth to open a beer bottle or snack bag may seem to be a quick and convenient solution, it can have lasting damage. Using your teeth to manipulate non-edible objects can create fractures and even lead to infection, so use tools or your hands to open these items whenever possible. 


For more advice on keeping your teeth and gums healthy, contact Jeffrey E. Bang, DMD, PC in Staunton, VA. This skilled family dentist and his staff offer a wide range of general and cosmetic dental services, from bridges and crowns to teeth whitening and dental implants. Call (540) 885-8667 to make a dentist appointment today.

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