Top Habits for Healthy Teeth and Those to Avoid | Smile Center

Top Habits for Healthy Teeth and Those to Avoid

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is straightforward but essential: brush twice a day, floss daily, and schedule regular dental check-ups. Beyond these basics, your daily habits can significantly impact your oral health. Here’s a look at some common habits and their effects on your teeth, based on expert advice.

Avoid Charcoal Toothpastes

Charcoal toothpastes are often marketed for their whitening effects but can be harmful. Their abrasive nature can wear down tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity, staining, and cavities. Since enamel doesn’t regenerate, it’s best to avoid products that can erode it.

Brush Gently, With a Soft Brush

Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too aggressively can damage tooth enamel, cause gum recession, and lead to tooth lesions. If you notice the bristles spreading, it’s a sign you’re brushing too hard. Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush and use gentle pressure. Holding the toothbrush like a pen can help ensure you apply less force. Some electric toothbrushes even alert you if you’re brushing too hard.

Avoid Sugary Drinks and Flavored Coffees

Sugary foods and beverages promote bacteria that lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Acidic drinks, including sports drinks, energy drinks, flavored coffee, and soda, can erode enamel. Even sugar-free beverages can be highly acidic, which contributes to enamel damage over time.

Swish with Water

Rinsing your mouth with water right after eating or drinking helps neutralize acidity, wash away residual sugars, and remove bacteria that cause cavities and bad breath. This is especially beneficial after consuming sweet or acidic foods and drinks.

Wait to Brush After Meals

Brushing immediately after consuming acidic or sugary foods can wear away softened enamel. It’s better to wait about 30 minutes to allow the enamel to “remineralize” as the acid’s effects diminish. Meanwhile, continue brushing and flossing regularly to maintain oral health.

Avoid Using Toothpicks

Using toothpicks or fingernails to remove food can cause gum injury, gum abscesses, and enamel abrasion. Instead, use interdental brushes, which are a safer and more effective alternative. Research shows they may be better at cleaning between teeth and cause less gum irritation than floss.

Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

Using your teeth to perform tasks like removing plastic tags or opening packages can lead to damage. Although tooth enamel is strong under compression, it is more prone to breaking or chipping when bent or flexed. Such habits can particularly damage the front teeth.

 

Published: July 27, 2024

Author: Dr. Joel Butterworth

Inspired by content from the New York Times

Joel S. Butterworth, DDS is the dentist and owner of Fredericksburg Smile Center and Ashland Smile Center. Dr. Butterworth has specialized training and clinical experience in all fields of general dentistry as well as advanced training in anesthesia and pain control, TMJ disorders, dental oncology, and emergency medicine.