Get To Know Us Teeth are made of hard, durable substances. Unfortunately, when they are not used properly, they can become damaged. Here are some bad habits that can do damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw.
Keeping your jaw in a protruding position, such as when you bite your nails, can put an inordinate amount of pressure on your jaw joint. Biting nails also puts you at risk of chipping or cracking teeth. Try applying bitter-tasting nail polish, or reducing your overall stress level. If particular situations are triggers for you, find something to do with your hands during those times.
Teeth are made for biting and chewing food–not opening things, or holding things when your hands are full. Using teeth as tools drastically increases your risk of breaking teeth, as well as putting pressure on your jaw. It also puts you at risk of swallowing things that you shouldn’t. Take a minute and find the tools required or ask someone to give you a hand–your teeth will thank you.
Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the best habits you could develop for your teeth. However, you must use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure when brushing teeth. Using a stiff- bristled toothbrush and brushing too hard can both damage your tooth enamel and your gum tissues. This opens them up to infection and tooth erosion. When brushing your teeth, think “massage,” rather than “scrub.”
For more information, call Magnificent Mile Family Dental in Chicago, Illinois, at 312-280-0034. Dr. Olaitan Okediji-Registe and our team are happy to help you develop healthy dental habits!