Stronger teeth start with stopping these five things
Our teeth are made for chewing food. Not opening bottles, clipping nails, or holding our house keys while we look for our house keys. Oh. There they are.
Putting non-food objects (like keys) in your mouth can introduce bacteria and damage teeth. It's one of several small habits that can add up to a big problem for dental health.
Here are some others to watch out for:
Biting your nails
Nail biting is more than a cosmetic concern; it can cause real damage to your teeth and jaw. When you bite your nails, you place repeated pressure on your teeth which can lead to worn enamel and cracked or chipped teeth. To break the habit, identify your triggers -- stress, boredom or anxiety. Then, find something else to do with your hands, like playing with a stress ball. Keeping your nails clipped short and using an anti-biting polish can also help.
Chewing ice
While it might be tempting to crunch them up on a hot day, biting or chewing ice cubes can crack, break or chip your teeth. Try sipping on cold water or snacking on veggie sticks or fruit for the same refreshing burst of coolness.
Smoking or vaping
Smoking or vaping can stain your teeth, cause bad breath and mouth sores, and significantly increase your risk of severe gum disease and oral cancer. It's never too late to quit and this will improve your oral health significantly.
Sugary food and drinks
Most of us enjoy a sweet treat now and then, but too much sugary food and drink can cause decay and erosion. It's best to stick to water and milk, and a low sugar diet.
Brushing too hard
Brushing is essential for good oral hygiene, but brushing too aggressively can do more harm than good. Hard brushing is associated with issues like enamel abrasion, sore and irritated gums, and tooth sensitivity. To prevent brushing too hard, choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and replace your toothbrush every three months, or when the bristles show signs of wear.
Mouth piercings
Mouth piercings might make a statement, but they can cause oral infections, chipped and cracked teeth and salivary gland obstruction. They also make it more difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene. If you have a piercing, you should choose quality piercing materials and attend regular dental check-ups so any issues can be managed.
Using your teeth as tools
Using your teeth to open bottles, packaging or nuts might seem convenient, but this can lead to chips or cracks. It can also damage existing dental work, like fillings or crowns. Always use the correct tools for the job and remember: your teeth are not a toolbox.
The take-home message is that our teeth should only be used for chewing food. If you're guilty of any of the above, the best thing to do is bite the bullet and quit.