Brushing and flossing are the pillars of oral health, but they are not all there is to it. There are countless seemingly harmless habits that can wreak havoc on your pearly whites, and most of us are guilty of at least some. Here are a few pieces of advice you should take to heart.
Cut Down on Acidic Foods
Avoiding sugary foods is a no-brainer when it comes to dental health. But sugar isn’t the only thing that’s harmful to our teeth. Excessive consumption of acidic foods and drinks, like citrus fruits and juices, can erode your tooth enamel. Lemon water is especially harmful since you may be sipping on it all day.
Stop Biting Your Nails
Quitting nail biting should be on your to-do list for several good reasons. It not only wears out your teeth, but it may even cause them to shift over time. There may also be bacteria under your nails that can cause gum infections.
Keep Hard Things at Bay
Chewing on ice, using your teeth to open stubborn packaging, and biting on hard candy can be dangerous. If you’re lucky, our teeth may not break, but they may very well develop small cracks. You can even cause injury to your gums with this bad habit.
Try Not to Clench
Clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth in your sleep can cause jaw problems in the long term. Needless to say, your tooth enamel can also get damaged due to these habits, leading to sensitivity and other issues.
Keep Your Mouth Hydrated
Finally, don’t forget to keep your mouth hydrated. Your saliva plays an important role in managing mouth bacteria. A dry mouth can increase the risk of developing gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. Drinking water will keep your mouth hydrated and help wash away food residue after eating.
Don’t take your oral health for granted: do away with harmful habits to ensure the longevity of your teeth.
