Although most people remember to brush and floss daily, many are still unintentionally harming their oral health. Regular appointments with a dentist are essential for healthy teeth, but you should also unlearn the behaviors that negatively impact your smile. Protect your teeth and gums by breaking the following habits.

What Behaviors Damage Your Teeth?

1. Chewing Ice

When drinking a cold beverage, many people can’t help chomping on the ice. Although teeth are durable, biting down on the frozen blocks of water can cause chips or cracks to form. Bacteria can get into the wounds and infect the inner tooth layers.

The hard shards can also puncture gum tissues. To avoid damaged teeth, drink out of a straw so that you aren’t tempted to chew on the ice. If you miss the texture, snacking on a carrot or apple can limit the stress on your teeth. 

2. Biting Nails

Biting your nails or chewing on a pencil is similar to filing down your teeth. The force of ripping off the nail can wear down the ends of teeth, leaving them misshapen.

The stress can also force them to shift out of place in your gums. These misalignment problems can affect the way you talk and eat. The gaps between the shifting teeth also expose the gum tissue to bacteria. 

To curb biting, cut your nails short so there’s not enough material to nibble on. You can wear nail polish to discourage yourself from ruining the coat.

3. Using the Wrong Toothbrush

When brushing your teeth, harsh scrubbing is never a good idea. It wears away the protective layer of enamel and can bruise gum tissues. You can expedite the damage by using a hard-bristle toothbrush.

If you have receding gums, the hard bristles can wear down the cementum layer that protects the roots. To avoid sensitive teeth, speak with a dentist about the appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste to use for a gentler clean.

In addition to breaking your bad habits, keeping up with regular appointments at Advanced Dental Care in Show Low, AZ, will protect your oral health. Since 2001, the dentists have provided patients in the White Mountain area with teeth cleanings, dental implants, and orthodontic referrals to improve their quality of life. See pictures of satisfied patients’ smiles online, or dial (928) 537-4363 for an appointment.