Most patients know which dental habits to adopt in order to maintain good dental hygiene: brushing and flossing daily, avoiding sticky, sweet foods, and regularly visiting your dental office. But what dental habits should you be avoiding?

Avoid crunching ice with your teeth. The cold and the hardness of the ice can cause microscopic cracks in tooth enamel. It can even lead to visible tooth fractures. You should also avoid crunching popcorn kernels, fruit pits, or any other hard item.

Don’t use your teeth as tools. Using your teeth to rip open packages, remove tags, or open bottles can lead to chipping a tooth. Your teeth might even fracture.

Pay attention to how much you grind your teeth or clench your jaw throughout the day. If your partner tells you that you grind your teeth at night, visit your dentist to get fitted with a night guard. A night guard will reposition your bite to relieve tension on the jaw, and will protect your teeth.

Neglectful dental home care is another bad habit to avoid. Don’t forget to brush at least twice a day and to floss daily. Don’t use hard bristled toothbrushes, and don’t use the same toothbrush for more than four months. It’s also important not to skip regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist.

When you do go in for a cleaning (at least twice a year), ask about the proper way to brush your teeth and to floss. Improper brushing can lead to receding gums or worn tooth enamel. Brush for at least two to three minutes each session, using the methods you are shown.

Avoid eating staining foods, or sweet, sticky foods. Red wine and coffee can lead to tooth yellowing, while foods like candy or soda can lead to tooth decay. Snack on healthy foods like carrots or an apple, and use a straw if you are going to drink soda.

Finally, avoid over-bleaching or over-whitening your teeth, which can weaken the enamel.

For more tips and to schedule your visit in Denver, contact our office at 303-832-7789.