Dental health is essential. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 80% of adults have some form of dental caries. Dental caries is a disease that affects the teeth and can lead to cavities, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. In addition, gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the United States.
There are several things that people can do to maintain good dental health. First and foremost, it is essential to practice good dental hygiene always. This means brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing once a day, and using mouthwash. It is also essential to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
However, good dental hygiene is not enough. It will be your habits, particularly the ones involving the mouth, that might be causing severe dental problems. Here are some things you should avoid if you want good dental health.
Smoking Tobacco Products
Smoking tobacco is one of the worst things you can do for dental health. Smoking increases your risk of developing cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. Smoking also causes bad breath, stained teeth, and premature wrinkles. Additionally, smoking can increase your risk of oral cancer.
Quitting smoking can be difficult, but it is worth it for your dental health. It will have to start with your decision to leave, which will be the bulk of the battle. After that, you will need to find ways to help you cope with the withdrawal symptoms and stick to your decision. You can talk to your doctor about medications that can help and other quitting aids such as nicotine gum or patches.
You should also avoid using other tobacco products, such as cigars, pipes, and chewable tobacco. These products are just as harmful to your dental health as cigarettes.
Using Your Teeth as Tools
Your teeth are not tools. They are not meant to be used to open bottles, tear open packaging, or anything else. Doing so can damage your teeth and make them more susceptible to cavities and tooth decay. You might be fortunate enough to avoid damage on one attempt, but eventually, you will damage your teeth if you continue to use them as tools. If you need to open something with your teeth, use a pair of pliers or scissors instead.
Overeating Sugar
Overeating sugar can lead to cavities and tooth decay. When you eat sugary foods, the bacteria in your mouth convert the sugar into acids. These acids then attack the enamel on your teeth, causing cavities. In addition, sugary foods can be sticky and cling to your teeth, providing more fuel for the bacteria in your mouth.
To avoid cavities and tooth decay, it is best to limit your intake of sugary foods. When you do eat sugary foods, make sure to brush your teeth afterward. You should also avoid eating sugary snacks between meals. If you snack on sugary foods throughout the day, the acids will attack your teeth multiple times, increasing the risk of cavities and tooth decay.
Not Visiting the Dentist Regularly
It is essential to visit the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. During a checkup, the dentist will examine your teeth and gums for any signs of problems. They will also look for any early signs of cavities or tooth decay. If they find any concerns, they will recommend treatment.
During a cleaning, the dentist will remove any plaque and tartar from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can build up on your teeth. Tartar is plaque that has hardened onto your teeth. Both plaque and tartar can contribute to cavities and gum disease.
Visiting the nearest dental office regularly is the best way to catch any dental problems early. You must call the dentist if you have concerns about your oral health.
Not Taking Care of Your Dentures
If you have dentures, it is essential to take care of them. Dentures need to get cleaned daily. You must also soak them in a denture cleaner at least once weekly. Failure to clean your dentures can lead to bad breath and an increased risk of gum disease.
In addition, you should avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives when cleaning your dentures. These products can damage dentures and make them more susceptible to breakage.
Taking care of your gums is also essential if you have dentures. Dentures can irritate your gums, so it is necessary to brush them gently every day. You should also see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Take Care of Your Teeth Today
Your teeth are an essential part of your overall health. Taking care of them is critical to maintaining good dental health. If you have any concerns about your oral health, make sure to see your dentist regularly. They can help you identify problems and provide treatment to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
