Human teeth can last a lifetime if properly cared for. But there are some bad habits that can cause damage to your teeth resulting in chipped teeth, fractured tooth structure, tooth-wear, spacing, headaches and even neck, joint or back pain.
Chewing Ice
This seems harmless enough because it is sugar-free and all natural, but the cold and hardness of the cubes can actually do damage to your teeth by chipping or cracking them.
Chewing On Pens Or Pencils
Just like with chewing on ice, this habit can cause teeth to crack or chip. Go for the sugarless gum if you feel the urge to chew on something. It will trigger saliva flow which makes teeth stronger and protects against enamel eating acids.
Tongue Piercings
Biting down on a metal stud can crack a tooth. Lip piercings pose similar risks. The metal rubbing against the gums can cause gum damage that can lead to tooth loss. Lots of bacteria live in the mouth so piercings can increase the risk of infection.
Grinding
Bruxism tends to occur at night. This can wear teeth down. The most common causes are stress and sleeping habits. It is difficult to control obviously but if you get a specially fitted night guard you can help prevent the damage caused by grinding while you are sleeping.
Biting Your Lips Or Cheeks
Sometimes people bite their lips and inner cheek as a habit without realizing what they are doing.
Smoking
Tobacco wreaks havoc on teeth. It stains them and can cause them to fall out as a result of gum disease. Tobacco is also a cause of cancer to the mouth, lips and tongue.
Holding Objects Between Your Teeth
If you are in the habit of using your teeth as an extra pair of hands, it is a good idea to stop before you accidentally chip your teeth or cause them to crack.
Breaking these habits is important if you want to maintain good dental health. To learn more about how to have good dental health and to schedule your dental visit, call Maple Avenue Family Dentistry today at (401) 247-2200. We look forward to hearing from you!
