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Our oral health is greatly affected by our habits. Changing our habits can help us have better dental health. Listed below are a few dental habits that can negatively affect our oral health.

• Smoking

Smoking is another bad habit that can damage your oral health. All forms of tobacco affect your mouth and teeth in a negative way. These substances cause gum disease, mouth sores, stained teeth, bad breath, and receding gums. Smoking increases your risk of developing oral cancer and can also worsen the symptoms of sleep apnea. The nicotine and other chemicals found in cigarettes also weaken the bones and connective tissues in your gums, which lose your support and become more prone to infection over time. If you smoke and want to improve your health and protect your smile, visit your dentist for advice on how to quit for good. Quitting smoking can reduce many health risks and improve your dental health. If you’re unable to quit on your own, consider speaking with your doctor about prescription products to help you kick the habit. Your doctor can also help you quit smoking by offering support and advice.

• Nail Biting

The habit of nail biting can lead to chipped or damaged teeth and could even lead to tooth loss if the issue isn’t addressed and treated. In addition to causing damage to the teeth, it can also lead to infections of the mouth or fingers. People who bite their nails may find that their fingernails are discolored, or they may develop white marks near the corners of their mouth where the skin has come into contact with the teeth while biting them. Biting the nails can also cause cracks or splits to develop in the thumbnail over time.

• Teeth Grinding

Bruxism is a sleep disorder in which a person grinds their teeth while sleeping. This condition can lead to worn teeth, jaw pain, and headaches. It tends to be most common among young adults. If you experience symptoms like sore jaw muscles or a clicking sound when you open and close your mouth, contact your dentist right away. Your dentist may recommend wearing a nightguard while you sleep to prevent you from grinding your teeth, and the treatment could help reduce your symptoms and prevent damage to your teeth.

• Aggressive Brushing

If you are brushing with a stiff-bristled toothbrush or applying too much pressure when you brush, you may be damaging your teeth. Using a toothbrush with hard bristles can wear down the tooth enamel over time, leading to tooth sensitivity. You can minimize this type of damage by investing in a high-quality toothbrush that’s gentle on your teeth when brushed correctly. Consider getting a brush with a soft-bristled head, and don’t snap it against the gums or teeth while brushing.

• Skipping the Dental visits

Dental cleanings are important to remove harmful plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and prevent the formation of cavities. Plaque is a sticky substance that causes tooth decay, bad breath, and gum inflammation. When allowed to remain on your teeth, it turns into hardened deposits known as tartar. Tartar cannot be removed with a toothbrush and can only be cleaned with special instruments and techniques used by a dentist during a routine checkup. If you avoid your dental appointments, you will allow more harmful bacteria to grow in your gums and mouth and lead to cavities and other serious oral health issues.

The Dental Centre, located in Austin, is equipped with expert dentists and modern amenities. To learn more about good oral care habits, call us at (512) 892-7800 and schedule an appointment with the dentist.