Your teeth are designed to last a lifetime, yet 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and a surprising 40 million Americans are missing all of their teeth. What’s more, these numbers don’t include the rates of tooth decay — 92% of adults and 42% of kids ages 2-11 have at least one cavity.
These gloomy statistics should remind us that a little preventive care can go a long way toward preserving your teeth. You already know that means brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day, plus visiting our office for twice-yearly checkups and cleanings.
You may not know that many everyday bad habits can severely undermine your oral health.
In this blog, Nathan Klabunde, DDS, of Northwoods Dental Group in Columbus, Ohio, lists seven everyday habits that may be ruining your teeth.
Before we leave the land of proper cleaning, we want to emphasize the importance of gentle brushing. All too often, people brush their teeth vigorously with bristles that are too hard. Instead, brush your teeth gently, in circular motions on the surface, and use only soft-bristled toothbrushes to preserve your protective tooth enamel.
We know life can get stressful but try not to let that stress impact your teeth by biting your nails. Your fingernails are hard, and you run the risk of chipping your teeth when you chew on them. Nail biting can also place stress on your jaw.
People who clench or grind their teeth, which is also related to stress, can wreak havoc on their teeth and jaws. Night grinding, especially, can wear down your teeth. If you grind or clench your teeth, we urge you to come in for a visit so we can outfit you with a nightguard.
Another bad habit that can ruin teeth is chewing on hard substances like ice. If you enjoy chomping down on ice cubes, understand that ice is strong enough to break or chip your teeth.
If you engage in a sport where your face may be in the line of fire, always protect your mouth and teeth with a sports guard. We can get you set up at our office with a custom sports guard to shield your teeth from whatever comes their way.
Hard candies are enemies to teeth for two reasons: First, as you slowly suck away at these sweets, the sugars linger in your mouth, which encourages tooth decay. Second, hard candies are, well, hard and run the risk of chipping your teeth.
Your teeth are designed for eating, not to double scissors or hold things when your hands are full. Both put you at risk of cracking a tooth, injuring your jaw, or accidentally swallowing
For more tips and all of your oral health care needs, call 614-347-3291 or book an appointment online with Northwoods Dental Group today.
