Bad habits are bad for a reason. It may seem like it’s not a big deal but bad habits related to teeth can lead to decay, deterioration or even worse! Here are a few habits you should definitely kick.
NAIL BITING: Biting your nails is bad for both your nails and your teeth. Bacteria from your nails (your hands are possibly the dirtiest and most exposed part of your body) can get caught in your teeth and travel into your gums causing infections, bad breath or tooth decay. Your teeth, especially the front ones, also get worn down faster due to the hard nature of nails.
CHEWING ICE: Ice is not easy on your teeth. Even though you’re chewing on empty calories while refreshing your mouth, you’re also damaging your teeth and possibly the nerves in your mouth. Ice is solid and chewing it is more similar to chewing hard lollipops than it is to drinking water. Frequent chewing can chip your teeth and cause a lot of wear and tear.
SMOKING: Smoking is bad for many reasons and you can add damaging your teeth to the list. Your mouth is the first point of contact so all of the chemicals as well as the heat of the smoke hit your teeth first before they get into the rest of your body. Smoking can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, bad breath, stained lips and teeth, and of course cancer among other things.
FREQUENT SNACKING: Not only does frequent snacking mean you’re using your teeth and mouth more throughout the day, it also means that food particles are stuck on your teeth for much longer periods of time than if you only eat during mealtime. This can lead to faster tooth decay and tooth loss. If you’re going to snack, stick with healthy vegetables or foods that aren’t overly fatty, sugary, salty, or acidic.
Dr. Lorraine Burio of Candlewood Dental Care has been treating patients for over twenty-five years at her New Fairfield, CT office. If you have any questions call us at 203-746-1200 or make an appointment here.