Are Your Bad Habits Responsible For Causing Damage To Your Teeth?
Everyone has a bad habit or two that they can own up to, such as drinking alcohol or speeding. The problem is that many don't realize that some of their habits are bad, especially when it comes to bad habits that are related to their teeth. While the damage may not have occurred yet, there is the risk of damage occurring at any time in the future. Here are a few habits that you are probably doing and may not even realize the risk of oral health harm:
Chomping on Ice
When people are trying to lose weight, they tend to chew on ice. It is completely natural, free of sugar and contains no calories. It is a way to hydrate without having to worry about gaining weight. Unfortunately, you are damaging your teeth in the process of it. Each time you take a bite out of a piece of an ice cube, you are taking a chance of cracking or chipping a tooth. If this were to happen, you then run the risk of exposing the tissue inside of your tooth, which can cause sharp pain and a lingering toothache. So, you may want to switch those cubes of ice for some sugarless gum.
Not Wearing a Mouth Guard While Playing High-Contact Sports
Love playing sports? Well, you better be wearing a mouth guard while you are playing. Otherwise, you are running a risk of chipping a tooth or having one knocked completely out of your mouth. This is particularly true in high-contact sports like hockey, football and the like. You can purchase mouth guards at a sporting goods store, but it is better to visit your dentist who can customize one for the shape of your mouth so that it fits snugly and protects you better.
Using Your Teeth to Open Stuff
When you can't get a plastic package open with your fingers, it isn't uncommon to use your teeth. A lot of people are guilty of it. Unfortunately, this is a habit that will literally make your dentist cringe if you told him or her about it. Your teeth are not tools and it is important that you don't treat them that way. For that reason, you should always keep a pair of scissors nearby, whether in your purse or in a drawer near your desk. Ultimately, the main thing you should remember here is that you should only use your teeth for eating.
For more advice on what bad habits you may be doing and what could happen as a result, speak to your family dentist. Contact a business, such as Crest Hill Family Dental, for more information.