Our teeth are made for biting and chewing food, and that’s it! Tooth enamel seems like a hard surface, but it’s not made to withstand excess pressure or habits that erode it.
Do you have any of these habits?
● Crunching and sipping
Now that may sound like what teeth are made for, but we’re talking about crunching things like ice cubes, or even popcorn kernels. Bite down on them the wrong way, and you could end up with a cracked tooth.
Sipping? Yes! Soda (even diet), tea, and other acidic beverages can eventually erode your teeth, especially if you habitually consume them.
● Using teeth as tools
Teeth aren’t nutcrackers or bottle openers! Or any other tool!
● Tooth grinding
If you grind your teeth, even in your sleep, you can wear them down without even noticing! You may need a night guard or other dental appliance to help stop grinding, and if your teeth are worn down, you may need further dental treatment to rebuild your bite.
● Hard-bristled toothbrush
A toothbrush with hard bristles might seem like a good idea, but it’s better to use a soft- or medium-bristled brush, and brush regularly and longer! Set a timer for two minutes to remind yourself of how long to brush.
● Not brushing or flossing enough
Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, in the morning after breakfast and before bedtime. If you can’t brush during the day, try to drink plain water so you can at least “rinse” out any food particles or acidic drinks.
So what could happen if you use your teeth in ways nature didn’t really intend? Obviously you could chip or break your tooth, requiring a restoration, such as dental bonding, or a porcelain crown. Dr. Huisman offers both dental bonding and porcelain crowns for Holland.
If you have any of these habits, it’s never too late to change! If you have any tooth or gum pain for any reason, please call our dental office in Holland at 855.599.5584.
