Do you brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly? If so, your stellar dental routine has probably given you a beautiful smile. However, there are some bad habits and just regular, everyday things you may do that can hurt your smile. While dental problems are never completely avoidable, there are some steps you can take to minimize your risk of issues like chips, cracks, and discoloration. Read on to learn about some things you may be doing that can have a negative impact on your pearly whites.
For some people, staying upright is easier said than done. A fall, slip, or trip could result in broken teeth, so it’s always important to watch your step. Being overly cautious about where you walk could end up saving your teeth. The same goes for biking! If you’re a cyclist, make sure you’re watching for potholes and other dangerous obstacles. Surprisingly, cycling is one of the leading causes of tooth loss.
Sports or physical activity can often result in an elbow to the face that knocks out or breaks teeth. Even during activities like figure skating, your teeth are at risk of injury. That’s why it’s vital to wear a mouthguard for a safe and healthy smile. Even for your loved ones at home, what may seem like harmless recess could turn into lost teeth on the monkey bars, which is why you should consider a mouthguard for your son or daughter.
Have you ever bitten down on a hard popcorn kernel or another stubborn item? This can crack and chip your tooth if you’re not careful. You can make efforts to bite down more gently, and you can also inspect your popcorn or other foods for items that may cause problems for your smile. You should also avoid chewing on ice cubes and hard candies because it could result in dental injury.
Smoking and tobacco use of any kind can negatively impact the look and feel of your entire mouth. Cigarettes are notorious for causing discoloration and yellowing, but they can also increase your risk of gum disease. Tobacco use also makes it harder for your tissue to heal once it’s damaged, making you more susceptible to dental problems.
As a rule of thumb, you should only use your teeth for talking and chewing! Especially during this time of year, many people turn to their smiles as an extra set of scissors or even bottle openers. These bad habits can cause serious and painful injury, so avoid using your teeth to open things altogether.
Do any of these habits sound familiar? Remember to watch out for these lifestyle choices to ensure that you and your loved ones have healthy and safe smiles.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Benjamin Naylor believes in building relationships with his patients to offer more personalized care. He treats dental emergencies like chipped and cracked teeth firsthand, which is why he wants you to know these helpful tips. He currently practices at Mountain Stream Dental, and he can be reached through his website or by phone at (541) 345-5363 for any questions.
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