Taking steps to tweak your daily routine and protect your smile can give your oral health a boost. Many of us have developed habits, or fallen into ruts, that are actually unhealthy. Keep reading to learn more from our Santa Monica dentist…
- Dental Grinding
The tooth-on-tooth contact that occurs when you grind your teeth or clench your jaw will weaken your dental enamel over time. Although you may not see cracks or chips right away, you are developing small weak spots in your teeth. Over time these vulnerable spots will accumulate dental bacteria and become more severe.
- Chewing Indiscriminately
Certain substances are too hard or abrasive to chew regularly. Ice, mints, and hard candies should dissolve in your mouth. When you chomp on these things you are putting too much stress and pressure on your dental enamel.
- Using the Wrong Tools
Not all dental tools are created equal! When you choose the right tools for your smile and your routine, you will see improvements in the efficacy of your daily dental routine. Let’s start by talking about tools to avoid: wooden and metal toothpicks, for example, may cause damage to your oral tissues or irritate sensitive dental nerves. On the other hand, a soft-bristled toothbrush is designed to effectively clean your smile without being too abrasive. If you think you may need a brush with firmer bristles, please talk to your dental team first; they will be able to tell you what type of brush is both safe and effective for your smile.
- Loading Up on Sweets
We have always been told that sugary treats are bad for our smiles, but, why? Well, the oral bacteria in your mouth need fuel to grow and multiply. The most effective fuel for these bacteria is sugar. That is why you want to indulge in sweets and refined carbohydrates minimally and at specific time-limited sittings.
We hope these simple tips have given you a better idea of how you can take control of your oral health. If you have any questions or you would like to learn more, give our Santa Monica dentists a call!