Are you aware that your habits could be causing damage to your teeth?
Here are a list of 5 habits that people don’t realise are affecting their oral health
- Aggressive brushing
People often think that the harder they brush the cleaner their teeth will be. This is certainly not the case. It is important to brush smart not brush hard. Vigorous brushing actually does more harm than good in the long run, leading to damaged teeth and gums. Scrubbing your teeth back and forth with a hard toothbrush can strip away enamel as well as gums. It is best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and use small controlled circles to clean your teeth. - Nail Biting
Nail-biting a very common habit. Some people do this when they are nervous or merely as a pass time. Even though, most people know it is unhygienic, they may find it very difficult to stop. But nail-biting can also cause damage to the teeth. Nail-biting can chip your teeth, cause undue pressure on the jaw joints and even dig into your gums. - Grinding
Many people grind their teeth when they are asleep and sometimes when they are stressed or frustrated. If this occurs frequently, it can lead to many other problems. Mainly, grinding your teeth can cause chips or cracks to form. It can also wear away the teeth and cause pain in the joints or muscles around your jaw. Relaxation techniques may help but if severe, you may need a nightguard, made by your dentist or orthodontist. - Thumb sucking
Thumb sucking can result in misaligned teeth or an overbite. This is a habit that should be prevented from a young age. - Using Your Teeth as a Tool
Your teeth are not designed to open bottles, tear plastic or grip onto items. Often it is convenient, to just use your teeth if you can’t find the scissors or your hands are full. But these simple habits can lead to long term damage such as chipping and breaking of your teeth.
If you are interested in getting an assessment of your teeth and jaw alignment, book an appointment with our team today. A modern trusted and respected orthodontic treatment centre, offering a full range of services in Frankston and Dandenong.