Are you harming your teeth with common bad habits? You might be surprised how habits that seem innocent actually harm your teeth and oral health. Our teeth are strong; they endure the daily pressure of chewing and grinding food. Despite their strength, your teeth are not indestructible. Dr. Gilly Calcagno discusses how common habits affect your oral health and harm your teeth.
Grinding Your Teeth (Bruxism)
Do you clench your teeth together when you’re angry or stressed? Does your bed partner complain that you grind your teeth while sleeping? Many people grind or clench their teeth at some point in their lives. However, this habit can manifest into a behavior that threatens your oral health and your teeth. Bruxism wears tiny fractures in tooth enamel and over time these cracks become larger. In severe cases, patients with bruxism can fracture or chip their teeth. Weakened tooth enamel also means that your teeth are vulnerable decay.
Flossing Irregularly
Many people do not floss daily as they should. Some may only floss once a week or once a month. Irregular flossing poses serious risks to your gum health. If your oral hygiene regimen includes brushing and occasional flossing, you are not cleaning up to 35% of your mouth. Flossing addresses debris and plaque lodged between teeth and near the gum line. Patients who do not floss daily may develop periodontal (gum) disease. Untreated gum disease can wreck your oral health; the infection destroys teeth, gums, and bone.
Using Your Teeth as Tools
Do you use your teeth in place of scissors to remove a clothing tag or loosen a knot? Using your teeth for anything other than chewing food is dangerous. Biting or chewing on hard objects can cause your teeth to chip or fracture. Like bruxism, this habit weakens tooth enamel, too.
For questions or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Calcagno, contact our Rochester dentist office at (507) 281-3659. Calcagno Cosmetic & Family Dentistry serves patients from Red Wing, St. Charles, Winona, Hastings, and the surrounding Rochester areas.
