dentalssale A healthy mouth does more than just give you an attractive smile. Research has revealed that oral health has a direct impact on the overall wellness of the body and is closely linked to the risk levels for conditions such as heart disease, pneumonia, and other health issues.
While it is common knowledge that everyone should brush and floss their teeth daily, it is equally important to be aware of the dental mistakes that should be avoided. These mistakes can have detrimental effects on your teeth. Here are the top 10 dental mistakes you should steer clear of to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
1, Neglecting oral hygiene:
The most significant mistake, as cited by dentists, is neglecting oral hygiene. Failing to take proper care of your dental health, including irregular brushing and flossing, can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. It is crucial to establish a daily oral hygiene routine that involves brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes and flossing at least once a day.
2, Using your teeth as tools:
One common cause of structural damage to teeth is using them as tools for tasks such as opening bottles or ripping packages. Such actions can result in cracking, chipping, and damage to your teeth.
3, Using tobacco:
Tobacco use has been associated with numerous health dangers, including those related to oral health. Smoking and using tobacco products can stain your teeth, cause bad breath, and increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
4, Filing down your teeth:
Some people resort to filing down their teeth with nail files in an attempt to make them uniform in length. This practice not only introduces bacteria from the nail file into your mouth but also causes irreversible damage to your teeth. Once your enamel is gone, it cannot be restored. For some individuals, this can lead to tooth sensitivity, while others may require root canal therapy if they file too close to the nerve, resulting in excruciating pain.
5, Brushing too hard:
While brushing your teeth twice a day is crucial for good dental health, applying too much force can have adverse effects. Many people believe that brushing harder will remove all the plaque and bacteria, but it can actually abrade the enamel and cause tooth wear and sensitivity. It is best to brush your teeth gently using a pressure-sensing electric toothbrush or a soft manual toothbrush.
6, Inadequate water intake:
Hydration brings numerous benefits, including improved dental health. Water not only benefits your overall health but also plays a vital role in dental health. Drinking water after meals or consuming sugary drinks can help rinse your teeth when brushing is not possible. Adequate saliva flow, facilitated by drinking water, helps prevent tooth decay and the formation of cavities.
7, Chewing on ice or biting your fingernails:
Chewing on ice may be satisfying, but it can cause microfractures that lead to significant fractures over time, ultimately resulting in broken teeth. A study conducted in Japan found that individuals who chewed 30 ice cubes daily using only one side of their mouths for two decades developed cavities and experienced jaw changes on that side. Additionally, nail-biting can also chip your teeth. Despite teeth being harder than nails, the thin edges of the teeth can easily chip if nails are bitten incorrectly. Some effective ways to break this habit include keeping your nails trimmed short, applying bitter-tasting nail polish, or opting for a gel manicure.
8, Excessive DIY teeth whitening or orthodontic treatments:
Certain types of do-it-yourself teeth whitening methods should generally be avoided. One trending approach involves mixing baking soda with hydrogen peroxide and applying it to a “boil and bite” mouth guard, which is made of a soft, flexible material that is boiled and then bitten to fit the teeth. Baking soda can be abrasive and, if used too frequently or in high concentrations, can damage tooth enamel. Moreover, ill-fitting “boil and bite” guards can cause hydrogen peroxide to leak out, leading to gum irritation or burns. Another risky DIY trend involves brushing with turmeric to strengthen and whiten teeth. While turmeric has proven health benefits when consumed, it is best to avoid brushing with it. It is important to note that attempting to straighten or move teeth at home without professional orthodontic work is extremely dangerous. Using items like gap bands, rubber bands, paperclips, beads, dental floss, or elastic bands to move your teeth can result in permanent damage to your teeth, gums, and roots. In severe cases, it may even cause bone loss and tooth loss.
9, Excessive snacking and sugar consumption:
Resisting the temptation to snack throughout the day can be challenging, especially when working remotely. However, frequent eating triggers acid release in the mouth to aid digestion. This acid can break down teeth, leading to cavities and decay over time. Some foods are particularly harmful to teeth, especially sugary substances like soda and candy. Sugar is a major culprit in tooth decay. When you consume sugary foods or drinks, the bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar and produce acid, which erodes tooth enamel. It is advisable to limit sugar intake and choose healthier snacks like fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
10, Skipping regular dental visits:
When individuals experience no oral pain or problems, they may be tempted to skip dental visits. However, dentists strongly advise against this. Regular dental visits help remove tartar and plaque, which cause tooth decay, and allow for the early detection and treatment of any issues.
By avoiding these common dental mistakes and practicing good oral hygiene, you can ensure the long-term health of your teeth and gums. Remember to brush and floss regularly, maintain a balanced diet, and schedule regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and cleanings. Your oral health is an integral part of your overall well-being.
