Bad Habits You Should Avoid for Better Dental Health

The team at PGA Center for Advanced Dentistry serves the greater Palm Beach Gardens area and offers Advanced Restorative Dentistry Treatments That Can Address The Most Severe Dental Problems. Yet many times the ideal solution is prevention.

Here are a few bad habits that people have that can result in tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems. Avoid these bad habits in order to have a healthy and beautiful smile.

Not Brushing Often Enough

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day to keep your mouth clean and healthy. Some people simply do not brush enough, however. If you want to have the healthiest smile possible, be sure to brush your teeth after every meal.

Not Flossing Often Enough

Flossing is crucial for removing food particles between your teeth that your toothbrush simply cannot reach. It’s good to floss your teeth at least once a night, though ideally you should floss after every meal.

Brushing and Flossing Too Aggressively

While brushing and flossing are good for your dental health, doing it too aggressively can lead to major damage of your teeth and gum tissue. Be sure to be gently but thorough when brushing and flossing. Use a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristle.

Using Tobacco Products

Smoking and using chewing tobacco are both awful for your general health and your dental health. If you smoke or use smokeless tobacco, it can also stain your teeth, increase your risk of gum disease, and cause a host of other problems. Rather than cut back, why not try to quit cold turkey? It’ll be best for you in the long run.

Biting Inedible Objects

A lot of people bite their fingernails, nibble on drinking straws, chomp down on ice cubes, and chew on pen caps. This nervous habit isn’t just a social faux pas. It can also lead to tooth damage if you aren’t careful. Be sure to avoid this bad habit to keep your teeth strong and healthy.

Using Your Teeth Like a Pair of Scissors

Many people have at one time or another used their teeth like a pair of scissors. This can cause major damage to the teeth and should never be done. When a job called for scissors, use a pair of scissors.

Snacking on Candy and Junk Food

Eating too much candy really can have a negative impact on your teeth. Oral bacteria loves carbs and sugars, which means snacking on candy can lead to advanced tooth decay. Try to snack on healthier foods rather than junk food.

Drinking Tooth Much Soda

Sodas are a double whammy on dental health. Sugar can cause tooth decay, and the carbonation can make your oral pH more acidic and result in enamel erosion. If you’re thirsty, water is a much better and healthier option.

Not Wearing Mouth or Face Protection

If you’re riding a bike or motorcycle or playing contact/combat sports, be sure to wear the proper face and head protection. This can help prevent serious chips, cracks, and other kinds of harm to the structures of your mouth.

Not Visiting Your Dentist Regularly

In order to keep your smile healthy for years and years, it’s important to visit your dentist twice a year for regular checkups. Some people go years without seeing a dentist, which makes serious health issues more likely. Schedule an appointment if you’re overdue.

Learn More About Improving Your Dental Health

For more information about improving your overall dental health and wellness, be sure to Contact Our Advanced Cosmetic And Restorative Dentistry Center today. The team at PGA Center for Advanced Dentistry looks forward to your visit and helping you have the healthiest teeth and gum possible.