Oral habits can have an adverse effect on your teeth. It is better to avoid such habits. Listed below are some of the most common habits that can damage your oral health.

• Nail Biting

This is a bad habit because it can cause your teeth to shift or move out of alignment. This may also cause stress fractures and chips in your enamel. It can also cause discoloration due to the damage it causes to the soft tissue inside the mouth. Your jaw joints can also be affected, leading to temporomandibular joint disorder. If you are wearing dental restorations like dentures, the habit can affect them as well. 

There are many things you can do to stop this habit. For example, you can use a stress relief ball to squeeze when you feel the need to bite your nails. You may also use bitter-tasting nail polish on your nails to dissuade you from this habit. However, the best thing you can do is visit your denturist for tips and strategies you can use to break this habit for good.

• Cigarette smoking

Did you know that the use of cigarettes and other forms of tobacco increases your risk of developing oral cancer? Not only that, smoking also makes you more prone to gum disease and other oral issues. Patients who are smokers often suffer from bad breath, have yellowed or stained teeth, and are at a greater risk of losing their teeth due to periodontal disease. In fact, tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors for gum disease. It can also contribute to gum recession and bone structure loss. This can cause the gums to recede away from the base of your teeth.

If you’re a smoker, schedule an appointment for a checkup with your denturist as soon as possible so he or she can check for any potential issues with your oral health. Also, your denturist can give you tips on how you can kick your habit now and protect your oral health in the future. They can also provide advice on what products you can use to help you quit smoking more easily. In addition, they can recommend medications that can help ease your withdrawal symptoms while you quit.

• Aggressive Brushing

When you brush your teeth with too much force, you can erode the protective enamel on your teeth and damage them. This causes pain and can even lead to tooth loss. Brushing your teeth too forcefully can also lead to gum recession and sensitive gums. If you brush too hard, ask your denturist about using a toothbrush with a soft or extra-soft bristle.

Also, keep in mind that you should replace your toothbrush every three to four months to prevent bacteria buildup on the bristles of your toothbrush. You should also thoroughly rinse your toothbrush after you brush to avoid bacteria growth. Replace your toothbrush immediately after you get sick because germs from your sickness can grow on it over time.

If you are concerned about aggressive toothbrushing habits, talk to your denturist at your next appointment. He or she can help you develop better habits for caring for your mouth. 

• Teeth Grinding

One of the most common bad oral habits is teeth grinding. If left untreated, it can lead to a host of issues, including headaches and worn tooth enamel. And grinding your teeth can also result in loose or fractured teeth, as well as muscle pain in your jaw. If you grind your teeth, it’s best to wear a night guard while you sleep. The night guard will protect your teeth from damage.

Most cases of bruxism are caused by stress. If it’s a habit you’ve developed over time, ask your denturist about ways you can manage it, such as through relaxation techniques. You want to make sure you’re protecting your mouth from all kinds of hazards well into the future.

• Not Visiting The denturist Regularly

Regular checkups with your denturist are crucial for maintaining good oral healthcare. Your denturist will be able to spot the signs of potential issues early on so they can be treated before they become more serious and costly. So, be sure to visit your denturist twice a year to maintain a healthy smile!

To learn more about good oral care, contact Summit Denture Clinic at 130 - 2881 Garden Street, Abbotsford, BC V2T 4X1, or call (604) 776-2881