You’ve probably heard that it takes 21 days to break a habit, but research also suggests it takes 66 days to create a habit. That may seem like a long time, but you probably don’t even recognize habits until they’ve already become hardwired into your behavior. When it comes to caring for your teeth and gums, good habits are essential to preventative care. However, bad dental habits, like the four behaviors below, can put your teeth and oral health at risk. Though difficult to break, stopping these habits now can mean healthier, stronger teeth for years to come. Here, your local dentist in Austin, TX discusses four habits to avoid to protect your overall oral health.
Dr. Helen Ragsdale has been helping patients create beautiful smiles since 1985 and has long-established roots in our community. If you’re looking for a local dentist in Austin, TX to help you achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you desire, contact Dr. Ragsdale. Schedule a consultation today by calling Austin Laser Dentist at 512-346-4690.
Brushing Too Hard
Brushing your teeth twice a day is a crucial habit to develop for your oral health. But did you know that brushing the “wrong” way can irritate teeth and gums? When you brush too forcefully, or use a hard-bristled toothbrush, you can slowly wear down your teeth enamel and even push back your gums. You should always brush your teeth in small, circular strokes using light pressure. Plaque can be removed from teeth without forceful scrubbing; if your toothbrush bristles are flattened against your teeth and gums, you’re brushing too hard.
Chewing Ice
After you finish a drink, do you frequently munch on some ice cubes to keep your mouth occupied? The cold temperature and hard surfaces of ice puts unnecessary stress on your teeth. While teeth enamel is stronger than ice, it sometimes takes just one wrong bite to chip or crack a tooth, or even lose a filling. Drink through a straw and discard your drink right after finishing to rid yourself of the temptation to reach for ice.
Skipping Nightly Dental Care
When you’re tired after a long day, it’s easy to skip brushing and flossing in favor of heading to bed early. But skipping nightly brushings is more harmful than you may know. When the day’s leftover food particles remain in your mouth, plaque can build up on your teeth and gums. Bacteria in plaque feed on the starches left behind on teeth and gums, releasing harmful acids that erode tooth enamel and can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease. When you go to bed without brushing, your mouth faces the corrosive effects of plaque for hours. Make your oral health a priority and give yourself the goal to brush and floss each night. If necessary, start brushing right after dinner to hold yourself accountable.
Using Your Teeth as Tools
Your teeth are made for chewing food. They aren’t designed to help you open a tightly wrapped package or cut a loose string. When you can’t find scissors or other tools, you may have the temptation to use your teeth to accomplish the job just once or twice. Don’t give in! Using your teeth as a tool even one time is not safe. Much like chewing ice, it takes one wrong bite or yank to lead to a costly emergency dental procedure. Be patient and try to find another tool; make it a hard rule to never use your teeth.
Contact your local dentist in Austin, TX today!
Dr. Helen Ragsdale has over 30 years of experience helping patients achieve optimal oral health. Routine cleanings by Dr. Ragsdale combined with good dental habits at home can improve your smile and protect your teeth. If you’d like to take additional steps to improve your smile, contact Austin Laser Dentist at 512-346-4690. Using minimal discomfort, advanced laser technology, Dr. Ragsdale offers cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry services.
