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There are 6 dental habits that people often develop that can harm, or even break your teeth. Undeniably, these habits can gradually harm your teeth over time, as well as your overall oral hygiene. Therefore, we suggest you book an appointment at one of our dental offices for a checkup to learn more about the consequences of these habits that harm your teeth. Accordingly, please read below to learn more about six habits that harm your teeth, and more importantly, how to break them.

Harmful Habit #1 - Nail Biting

A Nail Biting Habit?

This harmful habit can chip teeth and impact your jaw. “Placing your jaw for long periods of time in a protruding position can place pressure on it, which is associated with jaw dysfunction,” says Dr. Ruchi Sahota.

Break the Habit!

Bitter-tasting nail polishes, stress reduction and setting small, realistic goals can help. If certain situations are triggers, hold something to keep your fingers busy.

Harmful Habit #2 - Brushing Too Hard

Are You Brushing Too Hard?

Gently brushing for two minutes twice a day is one of the best habits you can get into. However, brushing too hard will create bad habits that harm your teeth. “Brushing with a hard toothbrush, or brushing too hard, can damage teeth and irritate gums,” says Dr. Matthew Messina.

A Softer Toothbrush!

Use a soft toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Acceptance at the proper pressure. “Don’t think ‘scrub.’ Think ‘massage,’" he says. “Save the hard toothbrush for cleaning the grout in the bathroom tile.”

Harmful Habit #3 - Grinding and Clenching

Are You Grinding and Clenching?

“This can cause chipping or cracking of the teeth, as well as muscle tenderness or joint pain,” Dr. Messina says. “You might also feel like you can’t open your mouth wide or chew with pain.”

Make Adjustments!

“Relaxation exercises and staying aware makes a difference,” he says. Furthermore, a nighttime mouthguard can also help. “You’ll have less tooth damage, less pain and muscle soreness and better sleep.”

Harmful Habit #4 - Chewing Ice Cubes

Love Chewing Ice Cubes?

“Tooth enamel is a crystal. Ice is a crystal. When you push two crystals against each other, one will break,” Dr. Messina says. “Most of the time it’s the ice, but sometimes the tooth or a filling will break.”

The Solution

Drink chilled beverages without ice, or use a straw so you're not tempted. “The risk of chewing ice is greater than any pleasure that comes from chewing it,” he says. “Besides, ice is really cold!”

Harmful Habit #5 - Constant Snacking

Find Yourself Constant Snacking?

Grazing all day, especially on sugary foods and drinks, puts you at a higher risk for cavities. Additionally, when you eat, cavity-causing bacteria feast on leftover food, producing an acid that attacks the outer shell of your teeth. Unfortunately, damage to this protective part of the tooth carries many negative and painful consequences.

Choose a Healthy Option!

Eat balanced meals to feel fuller, longer. If you need a snack, make sure it's low in fat and sugar. If you indulge in the occasional sugary treat, follow it with a big glass of water to wash away leftover food.

Harmful Habit #6 - Using Your Teeth As Tools

No Tools Nearby?

Your teeth were made for eating, not to stand in as a pair of scissors or hold things when your hands are full. When you do this, you put yourself at a higher risk of cracking your teeth, or injuring your jaw. Additionally, you could accidentally swallow something you shouldn’t.

Find a Replacement!

Stop and find something or someone to give you a hand. Your mouth will thank you.

Keeping up with your dental wellbeing does not end at brushing, flossing, or even a proper diet. These 6 habits that harm your teeth listed above may seem minor, but when neglected they can have major consequences. Nevertheless, it is important to practice positive dental habits everyday. After all, your teeth will thank you!

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6 Habits That Harm Your Teeth (And How to Break Them)