Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime, everyone dreams of having a gorgeous smile our entire life, it is a huge part of our identity and can significantly impact our self-esteem. This is why we go to great lengths to ensure our dental health is a top priority. However, some of our teeth's biggest enemies are hidden in the most unsuspecting habits, quietly wreaking havoc on our dental health. Here are 5 habits you need to work on to give your teeth a fighting chance.

Stressing

Chronically stressed or anxious people also clench their jaws and grind their teeth. This occurs when you are under stress. Although people may not be aware they are clenching or grinding their teeth, they may find that they are becoming a little bit loose.

Stress-related behaviors like clenching or grinding your teeth can seriously damage your teeth and jaw. Your teeth may become damaged if you grind them at night in particular. Make an appointment so that we can provide you with a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth.

The enamel may eventually start to wear away or flake if heavy grinding is allowed to continue over time. The teeth could appear shorter and more yellowish as a result. You will develop a proper stress management plan to help alleviate this.

Brushing too hard

Brushing is a huge part of dental health care but, did you that you could be brushing too hard?

When brushing, sometimes less is more. Your teeth and gums might be harmed by vigorous brushing. To protect your dental enamel, brush your teeth gently, using circular motions on the surface, and only with soft-bristled toothbrushes.

Eating candy that is hard or gummy

Hard candy is especially undesirable: The sugars in these treats, first of all, linger in your mouth while you slowly eat them, which promotes gum disease. Second, eating hard sweets increases your chance of damaging or chipping your teeth. Gummy bears and similar sweets stick to your teeth because of their high sugar content. If you do indulge, make sure to brush and floss your teeth right away.

Chewing Ice 

Chewing ice is terrible for your oral health, and if you're unlucky, it can one day result in a pricey visit to the dentist or orthodontist for you.

Ice chewing may cause enamel breaks, which can increase sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages.

A cavity, or hole, may form in a tooth if you break or fracture it while chewing ice. This is due to the fact that tooth decay is more likely when bacterially created acids have an easier time penetrating the dentin, the softer layer of the tooth.

Chewing ice increases your risk of tooth damage if you already have fillings, crowns, or veneers, or if you have braces, use a retainer, or have expanders. If you want to learn more about this click here.

Not getting a dental checkup every six months

Professional cleanings and biannual dental exams are essential components of your preventive care. At these appointments, your dentist or hygienist can find hidden issues, such as minor tooth decay or cracks, as well as the early stages of gum disease. Schedule an appointment with us if you are due or overdue for your routine dental check-up.