Bad Habits To Avoid To Have Healthy Teeth And Gums

Keeping your mouth clean is one of the best things you can do to prevent cavities and gum disease. Brushing and flossing daily will help remove food debris and plaque from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed, it will eventually harden into tartar. Plaque, tartar, and bacteria all contribute to gum disease and tooth decay.

Here are the habits to be avoided to take care of teeth and gums. 

Bad Habits To Avoid To Have Healthy Teeth And Gums

• Not Brushing Your Teeth

Not brushing your teeth is one of the worst things a person can do for their teeth. Brushing regularly prevents tooth decay and plaque build-up. Plaque build-up can lead to cavities. By brushing your teeth, you can remove plaque and keep your teeth looking white.

• Not Flossing

Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles that hide in between the teeth and along the gum line. If you skip flossing, you are allowing plaque and tartar to build-up, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Flossing doesn’t just clean the surfaces of the teeth; it also removes the bacteria that builds up in between the teeth. 

• Eating Sugary Food And Drink

Excessive sugar consumption not only contributes to tooth decay but also causes gum disease. Plaque, which is a sticky substance that contains bacteria, builds up on your teeth. The bacteria feed on sugar and excretes acid that erodes your tooth enamel. It also irritates your gums, which can result in sore, bleeding gums. To avoid the side effects of sugar, try to cut back as much as you can. Brush your teeth after a meal, or at least rinse your mouth with water. Also, try to stick to natural sweeteners.

• Not Going To The Dentist

The Dentist in Livermore, CA, recommends getting your teeth examined every six months. However, some people skip their dental visits altogether, which can be detrimental to oral health. 

• Grinding Your Teeth

Grinding your teeth or bruxism is a habit that many patients struggle with. This habit is often the result of stress or anxiety. When you grind your teeth, it can lead to worn teeth, sensitive teeth, and loose teeth. It can also affect your jaw, leading to TMJ disorder.

• Smoking And Chewing Tobacco

Smoking and chewing tobacco are habits that can have adverse effects on the health of your mouth and teeth. Both can cause tooth loss, gum disease, and even oral cancer. If you currently smoke or chew tobacco, talk to your dentist about quitting.

• Using Your Teeth Like Tools

Biting your nails, chewing on ice, and using your teeth to open packages are all bad habits that are detrimental to your smile. When biting your nails, you often squeeze your teeth together, which can affect your enamel and your jaw. Biting on ice may seem like a harmless habit, but it actually puts a lot of pressure on your jaw and your teeth.

Alta Vista Dental provides all the dental services with the expertise of experienced dentists. Call at 925-292-1459 and book your appointment with our dentist in Livermore, CA, to receive a complete oral checkup.