Oct
11

5 Surprising Ways You May Be Harming Your Teeth

You are keeping your teeth and gums healthy by brushing twice a day, flossing daily and visiting the dentist for semi-annual cleanings and exams.

But there may be some things that you are doing that can damage your teeth – and you may not even realize it.

Drinking too much alcohol and caffeine. Both of these can dry out your mouth, and a dry mouth is susceptible to decay. Your saliva acts as a helpful rinse to clean off bacteria, so when saliva is reduced the bacteria can cling for too long. Heavy consumption of alcohol can also increase your risk of oral cancer.

Brushing too hard. Really? Yes, you can brush your teeth too hard, especially when using a harder brush and using back and forth motions. You may be risking wearing away the tooth enamel and even leading to receding gums. Take it easy when flossing too and don’t saw too much at the gums.

Biting or chewing on items other than food. Please don’t use your teeth to open packaging or bite your nails! The tips of your teeth are thin and vulnerable to chipping. Stay away from chewing ice too!

Eating sticky foods. Healthy snacks like dried fruits pack quite a bit of sugar and stick to the teeth. These foods will turn into acids that promote tooth decay. If you enjoy these treats, be sure to rinse well afterward.

Grinding your teeth. If you have jaw or facial soreness in the morning, you may be grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw without even knowing it. Grinding your teeth, also known as bruxism, can erode your tooth enamel and even chip or crack your teeth. Please be sure to discuss this problem with us – we can help!

Let Us Know If You Have Questions on Any Aspect of Oral Health Care

Dr. Lorraine Burio of Candlewood Dental Care has been treating and educating patients for over twenty-five years. Our office serves the New Fairfield, New Milford, Danbury, and Sherman areas of CT and Pawling, Patterson and Putnam Lake of New York. You can call us at 203-746-1200 or make an appointment here.