Oral health is more than brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist, your daily habits play a major role too. Many small routines can slowly harm your oral health without you realising it. By paying attention to these behaviours, you can better protect your oral health and maintain a healthier smile.
1. Frequent consumption of sugary snacks and drinks
This increases the risk of tooth decay. Constant snacking, especially on sugary or carb-rich foods, feeds bacteria that produce acids, increasing the risk of tooth decay.
Tip: Limit snacking and rinse your mouth with water if brushing is not possible after eating. Drink plenty of water and try to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains.
2. Nail Biting
When nail biting is done continuously, it wears down the teeth till it chips or cracks. It can put a lot of stress on the jaw and also increase the risk of transferring germs from your fingers to your mouth.
Tip: Keep nails trimmed and endeavor to visit a dentist to receive help to curb the habit
3. Using Teeth as Tools
The enamel on your teeth may chip, crack, or wear away if you use them to open bottles, tear packs, or hold items like cables or nails. This can further deteriorate the teeth involved and lead to loss.
Tip: Always use the proper tool for the job and not the teeth
4. Smoking or Using Tobacco
Tobacco contains pigments that stains teeth and causes brown to black discoloration. It also causes bad breath, and significantly raises the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
The nicotine in tobacco products reduces salivary flow causing dehydration (dry mouth) and can increase the risk of dental issues like plaque, tooth decay, and mouth sores.
Tip: Seek support to quit smoking, your teeth and overall health will benefit.
5. Excess consumption of Acidic Fruits such as Lemons or Citrus Fruits
The acid in these fruits can erode the enamel, making teeth more sensitive and prone to decay.
Tip: Drink water afterward or use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
6. Brushing Aggressively
Brushing is good, but brushing too hard is not. You might think scrubbing harder gets your teeth cleaner, but you’re actually doing more harm than good. Aggressive brushing can wear down your tooth enamel and cause your gums to recede, exposing the sensitive root surface of your teeth. This can lead to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of gum disease. Using excessive force or a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and cause gum recession.
Tip: Use a soft-bristled brush for children less than 6 years and medium brush for anyone older than 6 years.
7. Grinding or Clenching Teeth (Bruxism)
This habit wears down tooth enamel, causes tooth sensitivity, and can lead to jaw pain or headaches.
Tip: Visit a dentist to manage frequent clenching and manage your stress levels
Your oral health is a reflection of your daily habits, both good and bad. By being mindful of these seemingly small actions, you can make a huge difference in protecting your smile for years to come.
For more practical advise on your dentition and oral health, book an appointment with our Dentist at the Redeemer’s Health Village
📱 WhatsApp: +2347048006501
📞 Call: +2347048006499 or +2347074727730
📧 Email: info@redeemershealthvillage.org
📍 1, RHV Road, Redemption City of God, Mowe, Ogun State
