Are you looking for more ways to improve your oral health? If so, there may be a few bad habits that you’re overlooking! If you want to protect your teeth and gums, be sure to avoid these harmful habits that could be silently impacting your oral health.
1. Drinking sparkling water.
If you’re trying to improve your oral health, chances are you’ve already decided to remove the sodas from your refrigerator. Perhaps you’ve decided to drink sparkling water instead. While this is certainly a step in the right direction, you may not be completely in the clear just yet. Recent studies have shown that sparkling water tends to be corrosive on your teeth as a result of the carbonation. Therefore, sparkling water should not replace your daily intake of fluoridated water, though it still is an improvement over your regular sodas.
2. Eating citrus fruits.
Citrus fruits are packed with antioxidants that are great for your overall health, but eating them in excess can actually be quite harmful to your teeth. The acids in citrus fruits wear away at your enamel and can eventually lead to tooth decay. Also, eating these fruits can lead to stains on your teeth as well. Therefore, it is in your best interest to either eat your fruits in moderation or to follow your fruits with a glass of milk to neutralize the acids.
3. Biting your pencil.
Chewing on your pen or pencil when you’re bored can actually be doing more damage to your teeth than you think. Every time you bite down on your pen, you may be adding too much pressure onto your teeth. This could damage your dental enamel or even existing dental work. If you chew your pens too often, this can also cause your teeth to shift over time.
4. Brushing too hard.
Sometimes there is too much of a good thing! Brushing your teeth too vigorously can damage your dental enamel, wear away at your gums, and even cause tooth sensitivity. To avoid harming your teeth, be sure to brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Plaque is soft and easy to remove, so there is no need to brush too hard to maintain your oral health.
5. Chewing on ice.
Your dental enamel is the hardest substance in your body, but it is still not intended to withstand the pressure that is required to crush ice. When chewing on ice, you could be damaging your dental enamel or gums. Therefore, be sure to avoid this harmful habit to protect your oral health.
Are you looking for more ways to improve your oral health? According to the American Dental Association, it is highly recommended that you visit your dentist every six months for a routine check-up. To schedule your next appointment, contact Caputo Dental in Naperville today!