No one likes having to stop everything to treat a dental emergency. They always seem to happen right after the dentist’s office closes! You can’t completely prevent them. However, there are some precautions you can take to decreases your chances of having them. Your emergency dentist in Annapolis suggests you kick these 4 habits to protect your oral health.
Smoking
Out of all 4 of these habits, smoking is by far the worst for you. People talk about how it increases your risk for lung cancer, but not many people are aware than it can also majorly contribute to dental problems.
Smoking can cause:
- Stained teeth
- Bad breath
- Diminished sense of taste
- Hindered immune system
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Greater risk for mouth or throat cancer
If you’re having trouble quitting, your dentist in Annapolis can help. In fact, more people see their dentist for help quitting than their primary care doctors. You could also ask your friends and family to hold you accountable and support you if you relapse.
Using Your Teeth as Tools
Opening a bottle of soda or beer might look cool in the movies, but it can seriously damage your teeth. Never use your teeth:
- To open bottles
- As scissors
- As a third hand
- To chew on foreign objects
- To crack open nuts or shellfish
Even if these activities don’t immediately chip or crack your teeth or hurt any restoration you’ve had done, you could still wear them down over time. It’s best to quit this habit and use your teeth just for eating.
Clenching and Grinding
Clenching and grinding can occur at night or during the day. They can wear down your teeth over time. While there’s nothing you can really do to prevent nighttime grinding, you can wear a nightguard to protect your teeth.
The main way to fix daytime clenching and grinding is self-awareness. It can be hard to stop at first, especially if you do it habitually or as a response to stress. If you find yourself clenching or grinding during the day, take deep breaths and release the tension from your jaw.
Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard
Most of us brush our teeth more forcefully than we need to, mistakenly thinking it will make teeth cleaner. This can damage the teeth and gums and lead to problems like enamel wear and receding gums. Eventually it can cause tooth sensitivity. Using less pressure and a soft-bristled brush makes it easier on your mouth.
Kicking these 4 oral habits can make your mouth healthier and can prevent dental emergencies. Equally as important are basic oral care habits like brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist for a checkup every six months. You can’t predict when they will happen, but you can help to prevent them!
About the Practice
At Goodman Dental Care in Annapolis, MD, father-and-son dentist team Drs. Gary and Jeremy Goodman provide high-quality dental care that meets your busy schedule. Their team will do everything in their power to treat your dental emergency on the same day you call. If your emergency occurs after-hours, their answering machine will provide you with a phone number for one of the doctors. For more information on how you can help prevent dental emergencies, contact them here or call them at (410)-263-1919.