Five Common Bad Habits That Could Be Ruining Your Teeth

Even though brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist once a year are top priorities for protecting your oral health, there are other things you might be doing that could make or break the health of your teeth and gums. 

Some of your daily habits could be slowly but significantly damaging your teeth, despite diligent efforts to keep them clean. 

Because of that, Dr. Cliff Broschinky and our team at Avalon Dental in San Ramon, California, highlight five of these habits in this month’s blog to help you better care for your pearly whites.

Chewing on ice (and other hard objects)

It’s easy to absentmindedly chew on your remaining ice cubes after polishing off your beverage. And since ice is just frozen water, free of sugar and calories, it may seem harmless. But ice can crack teeth or break fillings. 

Instead, drink your chilled beverages with a straw or skip ice in your drink altogether. 

Biting your nails and chewing on pens and pencils also have the potential to break your teeth or chip them. To break these habits, paint your nails and opt for sugarless gum when you need something to chew.

Opening objects with your teeth

When you’re trying to open something and you don’t have scissors nearby or your hands are full, your teeth can seem like a good third hand or pair of scissors. But by doing this, you risk damaging your jaw and teeth or swallowing something harmful. 

It’s always better to wait for a pair of scissors or to ask for help. Your teeth will thank you. 

Clenching or grinding your teeth

Teeth clenching or grinding, medically referred to as bruxism, is more often a subconscious habit when you’re stressed or sleeping. Putting so much pressure on your teeth can wear them down and lead to jaw pain and muscle soreness.

Solutions for teeth grinding include practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques and wearing a mouthguard at night.  

Using toothpicks

It can seem like a good idea to remove food and other debris from your teeth after a meal with a toothpick. Unfortunately, digging around your mouth with a toothpick (or any other non-dental device) can inflame your gums or even damage a tooth. 

Instead, opt for floss and thorough teeth brushing to remove any stubborn food pieces. 

Drinking soda, fruit juice, and sports drinks 

Drinks packed with carbonation and sugar are some of your teeth’s worst enemies. They can wear away your tooth’s enamel and leave them vulnerable to cavities, decay, and infection. 

While having these drinks on occasion is OK, it’s always better to reach for water, tea, or milk, which can actually strengthen your enamel and protect your oral health. 

To learn more about how to protect your teeth and gums or to schedule an annual cleaning (a good way to boost oral health), call our office or use our online booking feature today.