6 Habits That Harm Your Teeth
Nail Biting
The Habit: This nervous habit can chip teeth and impact your jaw.
The Solution: Bitter-tasting nail polishes, stress reduction and setting small, realistic goals can help. If certain situations are triggers, hold something to keep your fingers busy.
Brushing Too Hard
The Habit: Brushing for two minutes twice a day is one of the best habits you can get into. Just make sure you’re not trying too hard. Brushing with a hard toothbrush, or brushing too hard, can damage teeth and irritate gums.
The Solution: Use a soft toothbrush at the proper pressure. Don’t think “scrub” think “massage”.
Grinding and Clenching
The Habit: Grinding and clenching can cause chipping or cracking of the teeth as well as muscle tenderness or joint pain.
The Solution: Relaxation exercises, staying aware or a nighttime mouthguard can help with tooth damage, pain, muscle soreness and better sleep.
Chewing Ice Cubes
The Habit: Chewing on ice can easily break, crack or loosen a filling.
The Solution: Drink chilled beverages without ice, or use a straw so you’re not tempted to crunch on the ice.
Constant Snacking
The Habit: Grazing all day, especially on sugary foods and drinks, puts you at higher risk for cavities. When you eat, cavity-causing bacteria can produce an acid that attacks the enamel of your teeth.
The Solution: Eat balanced meals to feel fuller, longer. If you need a snack, make sure it’s low in fat and sugar. If you indulge in the occasional sugary treat, follow it with a big glass of water to wash away leftover food.
Using Your Teeth As Tools
The habit: When you use your teeth to hold things, open things or cut things, you put yourself at a higher risk of cracking your teeth, injuring your jaw or accidentally swallowing something you shouldn’t
The Solution: Stop and find someone (or the appropriate tool) to help you accomplish the task.
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