When you’re going about your daily life, you probably aren’t thinking about the effect that small actions have on the health of your teeth.
Fortunately, we are, and we’re here to help!
If you are prone to any of these habits, talk to us. We’ll schedule a dental evaluation to check the condition of your teeth and then discuss ways to break these habits or replace them with healthier ones.
For excellent, family-oriented dental care in High Point, call Deep River Dentistry!
Habit #1 – Drinking Soda
Okay, you probably know that soda isn’t great for your teeth. After all, it’s essentially sugar water. So you made the decision to switch to diet soda to protect your teeth from cavities… right?
You might be surprised to find out that diet soda isn’t great for your teeth, either! All types of soda are highly acidic. This acid eats away at your enamel in the same way as the acids produced by bacteria. In other words, even sugar-free soda can cause decay.
Instead of drinking soda, switch to water. For extra flavor, try infusing with real fruit or even cucumber.
Habit #2 – Biting Your Nails
Yes, biting leaves your nails looking ragged and can also tear up your cuticles and lead to infection.
Your nails and cuticles aren’t the only things that suffer, unfortunately.
Your teeth are strong and durable, but they are intended for one purpose – chewing your food. Any time you chew something that isn’t food, including your nails, pencils, or even ice, you are risking chips and fractures. A cracked tooth can be seriously painful, but even a chip that damages the enamel can create an opening for bacteria, which can lead to decay or infection.
Treat yourself to a manicure, and you’ll be far less tempted to bite your nails. If you still struggle to break this habit, consider bitter-tasting polishes to help curb the habit. These can be found in most drugstores.
Habit #3 – Frequent Snacking
It’s easy to graze your way through the day. Maybe you start out sipping coffee until lunchtime. Following lunch, you might keep little snacks at your desk to keep you alert and your mouth occupied. On your way home, you might have a snack in the car. While cooking dinner, you sip wine and taste test the food you are preparing. Before bed, you settle in with popcorn and a movie.
Here’s the problem – this constant grazing keeps your teeth bathed in sugar all day long. Even seemingly healthy foods like fresh fruit are loaded with sugar, providing the bacteria in your mouth with their favorite treat.
To break this habit, plan your meals so you stay fuller longer. If you do indulge in a snack, rinse your mouth with water. Try sugar-free gum if you have a hard time breaking the habit.
For more ideas or to schedule an appointment, contact Deep River Family & Cosmetic Dentistry today!