Simple Things You Do Every Day That Could Be Damaging Your Teeth

Genetics often play a major role in how strong and healthy your teeth will be and if they're pearly white or dull and dingy. However, there are many simple things that you might be doing every day that could be damaging your teeth, and which might mean more frequent visits to the dentist's office, and which even lead to chipped or broken teeth or eventual tooth loss. Note a few of those things here, so you can avoid them as much as possible.

Teeth as tools

Your teeth are not tools and should not be used for opening packages or soda cans, or for holding something that could cause damage to the tooth surface, such as nails or screws, or even sewing needles. If these items themselves don't wear down the protective enamel of your teeth, the chemicals on their surfaces can transfer to your teeth and cause damage. Use proper tools for opening items and avoid putting anything metallic in your mouth, in order to protect your teeth and the health of your gums and throat.

Dry mouth

Your mouth needs to be properly hydrated for healthy teeth, as saliva helps to wash away germs and food particles that stick to the surface of teeth. If you notice that your mouth is always dry, you can increase the amount of water you drink, but you might also discuss this problem with your dentist. He or she may prescribe medications that increase saliva production or coat your mouth with moisture, and also note if you're doing anything that make the mouth dry, such as allowing your jaw to hang open throughout the day or using harsh products when you brush.

Eating

Your teeth are made for eating most of your favourite foods, but some foods may actually be damaging to your teeth! Biting into hard foods like overripe apples or corn on the cob can weaken teeth, and very hard foods like toffee can outright chip or break teeth. Chewing ice can also chip away at the tooth's protective enamel. Sugary and acidic foods can cause enamel erosion of the teeth, while foods like coffee, tea, and red wine can permanently stain teeth. Be careful of how you use your teeth when eating, and cut up hard foods. Brush thoroughly after eating anything sweet or acidic, to remove sugar and acids from the surface of teeth. This will ensure you're protecting teeth and avoiding unnecessary damage.

Talk to a dentist from a place like The Happy Tooth Kurri Kurri for more tips. 

About Me

How to Improve Your Dental Health Today

My name is Tod and I love teeth. I am not a dentist but ever since I was a boy, I have been fascinated by what is in my mouth. I remember when I was little, I would spend hours looking into the mirror, trying to see what my teeth looked like. When I was 7-years old, I went to a dental summer camp and learnt even more about how bacteria and acids can cause teeth to decay. In my teens, I was fitted with braces and I learnt lots of cool stuff about brace care. Now, I am grown up, but I still have my childhood passion for dentistry and I look forward to every checkup.

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