Taking care of oral health goes beyond brushing your teeth and flossing. Often, without noticing, we adopt daily habits that negatively affect our teeth and gums, leading to problems such as cavities, enamel wear, sensitivity, and even periodontal diseases. While these habits may seem harmless, their cumulative effects over time can be harmful.
If you’re concerned about protecting your smile and keeping your teeth strong and healthy, this article is for you. Discover the most common habits that damage your teeth, how to avoid them, and the best practices for maintaining a healthy mouth.
1. Biting objects like pens or nails
Do you have a habit of biting pencils, pens, or even your nails when you’re nervous or focused? While it may seem harmless, this practice puts unnecessary pressure on your teeth, which can cause small cracks in the enamel and weaken the dental structure over time.
How to avoid it:
- Identify moments when you tend to bite objects and look for alternatives, such as using a stress ball or sugar-free gum.
- If you bite your nails, try keeping them well-manicured or use nail polish with bitter flavors designed to break this habit.
2. Excessive consumption of acidic beverages
Sodas, citrus juices, lemon water, and other acidic drinks can erode tooth enamel over time, weakening your teeth and making them more prone to sensitivity and cavities.
How to avoid it:
- Reduce your intake of these beverages and, when consuming them, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
- Rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic drinks to neutralize the acids in your mouth.
3. Using your teeth as tools
Opening bottles, cutting tape, or tearing packaging with your teeth might seem practical at the moment, but this habit is extremely harmful. It can cause tooth fractures, enamel chipping, and even jaw problems.
How to avoid it:
- Use the proper tools for these tasks. Teeth are designed for chewing food, not for acting as tools.
4. Brushing your teeth too hard
While brushing your teeth is essential for good oral hygiene, doing it too hard can wear down enamel and irritate gums, increasing the risk of dental sensitivity and gum recession.
How to avoid it:
- Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and make gentle circular motions instead of applying excessive pressure.
- Replace your toothbrush every three months or when the bristles begin to fray.
5. Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
Bruxism, which often occurs unconsciously during sleep or in moments of stress, can wear down enamel, cause dental sensitivity, and even result in jaw pain or headaches.
How to avoid it:
- If you suspect you grind your teeth, consult your dentist. A custom night guard can protect your teeth while you sleep.
- Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation or breathing exercises, to reduce stress.
6. Overconsumption of sticky or sugary foods
Candies, gummies, and other sticky foods easily adhere to teeth, promoting plaque buildup and the development of cavities.
How to avoid it:
- Limit your intake of these types of foods and, when you do indulge, brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water immediately afterward.
- Opt for healthier snacks like fresh fruits or nuts.
7. Skipping flossing
Although brushing your teeth is important, skipping flossing allows plaque and food debris to accumulate between teeth, increasing the risk of cavities and gum diseases.
How to avoid it:
- Incorporate flossing into your daily routine, preferably before bedtime.
- If traditional floss is uncomfortable, try alternatives like water flossers or dental picks.
8. Not staying hydrated enough
Saliva plays a key role in protecting teeth by neutralizing acids and removing bacteria. Dehydration or insufficient water intake can reduce saliva production, increasing the risk of cavities and bad breath.
How to avoid it:
- Drink enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- If you notice a dry mouth, consult your dentist to rule out conditions like dry mouth syndrome.
9. Using mouthwashes with high alcohol content
While mouthwash is helpful for maintaining hygiene, those containing alcohol can dry out the mouth, eliminating good bacteria and disrupting the natural balance of your oral flora.
How to avoid it:
- Opt for alcohol-free mouthwashes or those specifically recommended by your dentist.
10. Delaying dentist visits
Waiting until you feel pain or discomfort to visit the dentist can worsen existing problems and make treatments more complicated (and costly).
How to avoid it:
- Schedule regular visits to the dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and preventive check-ups.
- Don’t ignore signs like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or dental sensitivity.
Take care of your smile with small daily changes
Most habits that harm your teeth can be corrected with a bit of attention and discipline. By taking steps to protect your smile, you not only improve your oral health but also prevent more significant problems in the future.
At Beamann Hobbs CDMX, we are committed to your dental health and well-being. If you have concerns about your daily habits or need a professional evaluation, schedule an appointment with our specialists. We’re here to take care of your smile!
