Forever Smiles Dental Mansfield, TX | Common (and surprising) things that can damage your teeth
Did you know that several familiar (and unexpected) things can damage your teeth? These everyday activities can cause tooth decay and even total tooth loss if you’re not careful. Here are some of the most:
Eating acidic foods
Acidic foods can damage your teeth by eroding the enamel. Enamel is the hard outer layer of your teeth that protects them from decay. When the enamel is corrupted, it becomes thinner and weaker, making your teeth more susceptible to damage. Acidic foods can also cause tooth sensitivity. When the enamel is eroded, it exposes the underlying dentin, a softer, more sensitive tooth layer. This can make your teeth feel more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
To protect your teeth from acidic foods, it’s essential to practice good oral hygiene habits. Be sure to brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. You should also see your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
Drinking carbonated beverages
Carbonated beverages, such as soda and sparkling water, can also damage your teeth. The acids in these drinks can erode the enamel, making your teeth more vulnerable to decay. If you do drink carbonated beverages, be sure to brush your teeth afterward.
Chewing ice can also damage your teeth. The intricate texture of the ice can crack or chip your teeth. If you chew ice regularly, you should see a dentist ensure your teeth are healthy. In addition to sugary and acidic drinks, coffee and tea can stain your teeth. If you enjoy these beverages, brush your teeth afterward to help prevent staining. You may also want to consider using a straw to help keep the liquid away from your teeth.
Chewing on hard objects
Chewing on complex objects like ice or hard candy can break your teeth. Additionally, chewing on complex objects can wear down the enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to decay. If you must chew on something hard, do so sparingly and use your back teeth, which are more potent than your front teeth.
You should also avoid chewing tobacco products, as they can cause staining and damage your teeth. If you use tobacco products, it’s essential to quit as soon as possible to protect your oral health. Additionally, you should avoid drinking excessive amounts of coffee or tea, as these beverages can stain your teeth. If you drink coffee or tea, brush your teeth shortly afterward to remove any residual stains.
Grinding your teeth
Grinding your teeth can wear down the enamel and cause chips or cracks. Additionally, grinding can lead to TMJ disorders, which can cause pain and inflammation in the jaw joint and muscles.
To help prevent teeth grinding, avoid chewy or sticky foods, as they can cause you to clench your teeth. Also, try to minimize stress in your life, as it can lead to involuntary teeth grinding. If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouth guard can help protect your teeth from damage. If you think you may be grinding your teeth, see your dentist. They can help you find the cause of the problem and recommend treatment options. Treatment options may include:
- Wearing a mouth guard at night.
- Avoiding hard or chewy foods.
- Minimizing stress in your life.
Smoking cigarettes
Smoking cigarettes can stain your teeth and cause bad breath. Additionally, smoking increases your risk of developing gum disease and oral cancer. If you currently smoke cigarettes, now is the time to quit. There are many resources available to help you quit smoking for good.
The health risks of smoking are well-known. Smoking can lead to lung cancer, heart disease, and other serious health problems. But did you know that smoking also increases your risk of developing oral health problems?
If you’re looking for help quitting smoking, your dentist can be a great resource. Many dentists offer cessation programs and can provide you with helpful tips and resources. There are also many quitting smoking programs available online and over the phone. If you’re ready to quit smoking, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for help. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health – and your oral health in particular.
Not brushing or flossing regularly
Not brushing or flossing regularly can lead to plaque buildup on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can cause gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
To help prevent plaque buildup, brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps to protect your teeth from decay. Be sure to floss daily to remove plaque and food debris between your teeth. If you have trouble reaching all of your teeth with a toothbrush or floss, ask your dentist about special tools to help. In addition to good oral hygiene habits, eating a balanced diet and avoiding sugary snacks and drinks can help reduce your risk of plaque on your teeth.
Not visiting the dentist regularly
Not visiting the dentist regularly can lead to problems with your teeth and gums. A Dentist can detect problems early and provide treatment to prevent them from worsening. Additionally, a dentist can help you maintain good oral hygiene habits. If you do not visit the dentist regularly, you may risk cavities or gum disease. A cavity is a hole in your tooth that can become infected and cause pain. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss.
A dentist can help prevent these problems by performing regular checkups and cleanings. During a checkup, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums for any signs of problems. If a problem is found, they will provide treatment to prevent it from worsening.
In Summary:
Welcome to Forever Smiles! We are a family dentistry practice located in Mansfield, TX. Our mission is to provide high-quality dental care for all of our patients. We offer various services such as teeth cleanings, fillings, and more. We accept most major insurance plans and offer financing options for those who need them. Call us today to schedule an appointment! Thank you for choosing Forever Smiles!