Seven habits that can impact the health of your smile

Healthy smile Do you want a healthier, more beautiful smile? Did you know that there are things that you do every day that can ruin your chances of maintaining oral health and wellness? Along with brushing and flossing after every meal, there are many things you may be doing that can impact your teeth and gums. Below are seven habits that can impact the health of your smile:

  • Drinking sugary beverages. Whether you’re a fan of soda or hot chocolate, sipping away at sugary treats such as these can increase the risk of developing plaque accumulation and experiencing decay.
  • Acidic foods. While certain acid fruits such as grapefruits, oranges, and lemons are good for your health, they may be bad for your smile. It is important that patients who indulge in these acidic foods brush and floss their teeth immediately after to avoid decay.
  • Drinks that can stain the teeth. Coffee, red wine, and teas are not necessarily bad for your teeth, but over time they can cause discoloration that can only be addressed with tooth bleaching services.
  • Clenching and grinding of the teeth. Patients who have high levels of stress may find that they clench and grind their teeth. This can negatively impact the natural teeth as it can grind them down to the point of fracturing the natural teeth or breaking dental restorations entirely. Patients diagnosed with bruxism will be advised to wear a mouth piece to avoid damage to the smile.
  • Over-the-counter whitening. While it may sound like a great way to brighten the smile, the continued use of over-the-counter whitening products can cause unwanted sensitivity due to the breaking down of the natural tooth enamel. Instead, patients should consult with their dentist to learn more about professional-grade whitening options that do not increase sensitivity and wear down natural tooth enamel.
  • Using your toothbrush incorrectly. Not only should patients use a soft bristled tooth brush, but patients should also avoid harshly brushing their teeth. This can hurt the teeth and increase the risk of gum abrasion.
  • Chewing on ice, pen caps, etc. Chewing on hard objects can break the natural tooth structure. Avoid chewing on ice, pen caps, and other items, and avoid using your teeth as a way to open a bottle or tear open a bag of chips.

Call Dr. Heather F. Fleschler today!

Houston, TX area patients who are interested in improving their oral health and wellness are welcome to book a consultation visit and initial examination with Dr. Heather F. Fleschler. Call (713) 660-6500 to schedule a visit at 5252 Westchester Street, Suite #200.

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