When you brush, floss, and do your best not to eat too many candies, you feel like you are doing all the right things for your teeth, right? But what if some daily habits that seem harmless are eroding your smile? It is true. Many regular habits that might be innocent can wear down your smile progressively, without you being aware of it. When you know the hidden dangers, you will take the first step to protect your pearly whites and get the finest dental care in Brampton.
1. Brushing After Eating and Drinking Acidic Food
Acidic foods and drinks soften tooth enamel. Brushing immediately can actually scrub this softened enamel away, causing erosion over time. Rinse your mouth with water and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.
2. Eating too often
It’s not only what you eat but how frequently. Anytime you eat or drink something, the pH in your mouth drops, creating an acidic environment for bacteria to flourish and attack your enamel. If you snack frequently, even if it is healthy, your teeth are constantly under attack. There is insufficient time for your saliva to neutralize the acid and remineralize your enamel, exposing it to danger.
3. Mouth Breathing
Do you breathe through your mouth, especially while sleeping? Mouth breathing dries your mouth and drastically decreases saliva flow. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defence mechanism. The saliva in your mouth helps wash away food particles, neutralize the acids bacteria create, and strengthen the enamel. A mouth dry of saliva exposes your teeth to decay and gum disease. Consider discussing your habits with a physician for holistic dental wellbeing.
4. Aggressive or Incorrect Flossing
Flossing is essential, but aggressively or incorrectly flossing can damage your gums and tooth roots. Sawing motions with the floss or snapping the floss down too hard can cause gum recession. It also exposes sensitive root surfaces, leads to notches in teeth, and triggers gingival recession. Always floss in a gentle ‘C shape’ motion, moving the floss around the tooth and gently sliding it in the gum line.
5. Overusing Over-the-Counter Whitening Products
Everyone wants to have a brighter, whiter smile. However, overusing over-the-counter whitening gels or strips can lead to extreme tooth sensitivity. Enamel erosion and gum irritation is also bound to come about. These products are acidic, thus eroding your tooth’s protective layers if used excessively. It is always important to follow product instructions and seek dependable oral advice.
6. Skipping Breakfast
Skipping your morning meal can lead to dental problems. The saliva flow that would be used to chew and scrape away acid remains low, allowing the acidic environment to last longer. Eating a balanced breakfast initiates saliva production. It also helps clean the mouth and protect your teeth. You should strive to make better dental choices.
7. Using Chewing Gum Instead of Good Oral Hygiene
Chewing sugar-free gum can be good for stimulating saliva. Nonetheless, it is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Some of the sugar-free flavours contain acid or may cause bruxism if chewed too long. Chewing gum may freshen your breath briefly, but it does not remove plaque. Therefoe, it does not help clean between your teeth. Brampton dental services will show the importance of proper brushing and flossing for complete oral care.
Final Thoughts
Throughout our daily lives, we engage in small actions without conscious thought. Although most habits are trivial, some could be detrimental to oral health. It is essential to alter these habits, combine them with the guidance of a reliable oral expert to keep your smile healthy for many years.