All Hendricks County residents have some bad habits. Some of these habits are caused by stress. Some we do because they make us happy. However, some of our bad habits can affect our oral health. Below are 5 habits that can be bad for your teeth and gums, and what you can do to stop them.
- Crunching on Ice. The hardness and cold temperature of the ice cubes can cause fractures in your teeth’s enamel. Over time, these cracks can lead to bigger dental problems. Also, eating ice can irritate your gums. Instead of chewing on your ice, find something else to chew on, like an apple, carrots or celery.
- Using Your Teeth as a Tool. Do you use your teeth to open snack bags, rip the price tag off a piece of clothing, or uncap a bottle? These actions can be hard on your teeth and traumatize them. You may even chip or facture a tooth when you use your teeth as a tool. Instead of using your teeth, use real tools instead, like scissors or pliers, to complete tasks.
- Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard or Using a Hard-Bristled Toothbrush. When you brush your teeth too hard, you can wear them down. You can also damage and irritate your gums. This will cause your teeth to be more susceptible to oral health problems. While you may think brushing your teeth with a hard-bristled toothbrush will get them cleaner, this isn’t so. A hard-bristled toothbrush can actually irritate your gums and cause tooth sensitivity. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush instead and don’t scrub so hard. You may want to consider using an electric toothbrush which will do the most of brushing work for you.
- Not Brushing and Flossing Regularly. Many Hendricks County residents just don’t take the time to brush or floss their teeth. Over time, their oral health can suffer. They may develop tooth decay and gum disease. Therefore, if you’re not brushing and flossing regularly, make the time to brush your teeth twice a day with a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Also, while you’re at it, floss at least once a day.
- Not Visiting the Dentist for Regular Exams and Cleanings. When you don’t visit Danville Family Dentistry for regular dental exams or cleanings, you may be putting your teeth and gums at risk. Over time, any tooth decay and/or gum disease you have, may become worse. By waiting to come in, you may require more extensive treatment than if you came in earlier when your dental issue wasn’t as bad. For example, instead of needing a filling months ago, you now may need to have a root canal and crown, which not only costs more money, but requires more treatment time. By visiting our Hendricks County office, Dr. Jon Erickson can detect any oral health problems you may have early before they require more extensive treatment.If you’re not seeing Dr. Erickson regularly, because you don’t have dental insurance, you may be interested in signing up for Danville Family Dentistry’s Smile Savings Plan. For a low annual fee, you can receive 2 professional dental cleanings, 2 professional oral evaluations, and regularly scheduled dental X-rays during a year. Plus, you’ll receive 15% off any other dental care procedures provided by Danville Family Dentistry. Contact Danville Family Dentistry at 317-745-4400 to learn more about our Smile Savings Plan.
When you take the time to break your bad oral health habits, you can help ensure your smile stays healthy.
Disclaimer: The information included in this article is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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