10 Bad Dental Health Habits You Should Avoid

We all know the basics of good oral hygiene: brush and floss daily, and visit the dentist regularly. But did you know that some everyday habits can slowly and silently damage your teeth? From what you chew on to how you use your teeth, certain behaviors can put you at risk for cavities, chips, and other serious dental problems.

To protect your smile, it’s important to be aware of the habits you should avoid. Here are 10 common mistakes to correct for better dental health.

1. Brushing Too Hard. A common misconception is that brushing harder cleans better. In reality, aggressive brushing can wear down your tooth enamel and lead to gum recession, making your teeth more sensitive and vulnerable to decay. Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle, circular motions.
2. Using Your Teeth as Tools. Opening bottles, tearing tape, or cutting threads with your teeth can cause them to chip, crack, or even fracture. Keep scissors, bottle openers, and other tools handy to protect your teeth from unnecessary force.
3. Chewing on Ice. The hard, brittle nature of ice can easily cause a tooth to chip or crack, especially if it has an existing filling or an undetected hairline fracture. Instead of chewing on ice, opt for a glass of cold water without it.
4. Biting Your Nails. This nervous habit can not only chip your teeth but also put excessive stress on your jaw. The constant pressure can lead to jaw pain and discomfort.
5. Snacking on Sugary and Acidic Foods. Frequent snacking, particularly on foods and drinks high in sugar and acid, keeps your teeth under constant attack. Every time you eat a sugary snack, the bacteria in your mouth produce acids that wear away enamel.
6. Not Flossing. Brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your teeth. The remaining 40% are in the tight spaces between your teeth. Flossing is essential for removing food particles and plaque from these areas, preventing cavities and gum disease.
7. Ignoring Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism). Many people grind or clench their teeth, often while they sleep. This habit, known as bruxism, can wear down teeth, cause jaw pain, and even lead to cracked teeth. If you suspect you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about a custom-fitted mouthguard.
8. Drinking Too Much Soda or Energy Drinks. These beverages are a double threat to your teeth. They are loaded with sugar, and many are highly acidic, which erodes tooth enamel. Switching to water is one of the best things you can do for your oral health.
9. Using an Old Toothbrush. A worn-out toothbrush with frayed bristles is ineffective at cleaning your teeth. For optimal cleaning, replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or sooner if the bristles are visibly worn.
10. Delaying Dental Visits. Postponing your regular dental check-ups and cleanings is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. These appointments are crucial for professional cleaning and for catching potential problems like cavities and gum disease in their early stages, before they become major issues.

Making small changes to these everyday habits can have a major impact on your long-term oral health. If you have questions about any of these habits or are due for a check-up, contact us today to schedule an appointment.