There are many bad habits that can negatively impact your oral health. These habits can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and other dental problems. Here are some of them.
- Not Brushing Properly
If you don’t brush at least twice a day and long enough to clean all of your teeth, you are increasing the risk of tooth decay and cavities. Besides, you could also be doing damage to your teeth by brushing too hard or not using the right technique. When you brush your teeth too aggressively, you can damage your tooth enamel, which protects the inner core of your teeth from damage and decay. The American Dental Association advises using a soft-bristled brush with a rounded head to avoid these side effects. Your enamel is one of the hardest substances in your body, but unfortunately, it is also highly susceptible to damage from improper hygiene.
- Not Flossing Regularly
Flossing is important to remove plaque from between teeth and along the gum line. Unfortunately, most people do not floss as often as they should. About a third of Americans don’t floss regularly. If you are one of these people, here are some of the consequences you may experience if you don’t floss every day.
If you don’t floss, the sticky film that builds up on your teeth is called plaque. This substance is filled with bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. If you do not remove the plaque by brushing or flossing, it will eventually cause cavities to form in your teeth. Cavities form in the teeth when acids eat away at the enamel. The decay will continue to spread until it cannot be reversed with a filling. If left untreated, severe decay may lead to the need for a root canal or even tooth loss.
- Smoking Or Using Other Tobacco Products
Tobacco use is one of the most significant contributors to the development of oral cancer, periodontal disease, and tooth loss. Cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and other tobacco products all contain dangerous chemicals that lead to oral disease in some manner. Smokers also tend to have more plaque buildup and less saliva production than those who do not smoke because nicotine interferes with the production of saliva. This means that smokers are more susceptible to tooth decay as well as periodontal infections such as gingivitis and periodontitis. If you are ready to quit your tobacco use habit for good, you can talk to your dentist or doctor about using a smoking cessation program to help you kick the habit.
- Using A Worn Toothbrush
There’s nothing wrong with using a toothbrush until it shows signs of wear. Brushing removes plaque, which helps to prevent cavities and tooth decay. However, it’s important to replace your toothbrush once it starts showing signs of wear and tear. Bristles that become frayed after several months of use should be replaced promptly. Otherwise, you risk damaging your enamel and causing gum recession as sensitive areas on the teeth receive more pressure than normal. These worn bristles can also harbor bacteria and become breeding grounds for germs that cause gingivitis and other oral health issues.
- Eating Harmful Foods
Some foods can not only cause your teeth to stain; they can actually damage the enamel of the teeth. For example, eating chips or drinking soda can often cause the teeth to erode from exposure to acid and bacteria. Besides, when you eat foods that contain high amounts of sugar, they are consumed quickly by the bacteria in your mouth. This can cause them to increase at a dangerous rate and then cause tooth decay or gum disease. Limiting the intake of sugary foods can help reduce the risk of decay and infection.
- Avoiding Regular Checkups with Your Dentist
Many patients avoid visiting their dentist for regular checkups due to anxiety about their smile or fear of dental procedures. However, your dentist is an important part of your oral healthcare team. They can help identify early signs of damage in your teeth and gums and help prevent problems before they occur.
Contact Progressive Dental to learn more about oral care. Schedule an appointment with our dentist by calling Dentist in Ann Arbor, MI, at (734) 930-4022 or visit our office at 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive Lobby A, Ann Arbor, MI 48105.