5 Habits That Can Ruin Your Teeth

Your oral health contributes to your overall well-being. Everyday habits such as brushing and flossing and regular visits to your Winnipeg dental clinic are essential. With that said, there are also many unhealthy habits that can unintentionally ruin your teeth.

Today, you will be learning about which bad habits to avoid and how they can cause tooth decay and other oral issues. Making these simple changes can lead to a healthier mouth, and ultimately a healthier you.

1. Avoid Chewing on Ice

Ever chugged on a cool drink and then proceeded to chew on the ice at the bottom of the cup? This unconscious habit may seem harmless. Plus, if ice is made from water could it really ruin your teeth?

The answer is, yes. In fact, chewing on ice can permanently damage your teeth and create small cracks in the enamel. Over time, these cracks can deepen and result in a tooth fracture. If this is the case, you will be required to visit your Winnipeg dentist for dental work.

Instead, try opting for drinks without ice to resist the urge. Not only will this save you time in the future, but your pockets will also thank you.

2. Playing Sports Without a Mouth Guard

If you wouldn’t play football without a helmet, why would you play without a mouth guard?

Nobody wants to ruin their teeth, but every time you engage in a contact or non-contact sport your teeth are at risk for a dental injury. A mouth-guard helps cushion hard blows to your teeth. In addition, wearing a mouth guard can protect your:

• Lips
• Tongue
• Cheeks
• Gums

In terms of the types of mouth guards available, you have a few options. These include:

•  Stock mouth guards: These are available at most sporting goods stores. They offer the least amount of protection.
• Boil-and-bite mouth guards: These are also available over-the-counter. When placed in boiling water, these take shape to your dental structure
• Custom-made mouth guards: These are by far the best type of mouth protector. They are superior in fit, comfort, and cushioning (shock absorption) effect.

3. Bruxism

Bruxism, or more commonly known as teeth grinding/clenching can be an inherited trait. Many patients grind their teeth at night without even noticing. Unfortunately, teeth grinding can ruin your teeth. Some of the associated health risks include:

• Chipped tooth enamel
• Cracked teeth
• Loose teeth
• Flat, worn-down teeth
• Joint issues
• Tooth loss

Symptoms of bruxism include:

• Earaches
• Headaches
• Neck aches
• Loose teeth
• A clicking sound of the jaw

If you suffer from any of the above symptoms, speak with your dentist in Winnipeg about a custom-made mouth guard.

4. Constant Snacking

Eating small portions every day is the key to winning the battle of the bulge right? But have you ever stopped to consider how constant snacking throughout the day can actually ruin your teeth?

Munching away on snacks such as chips, candy, popcorn, sweets can lead to plaque buildup. This is because the food you eat will sit on your teeth for longer periods of time.

Instead of eating multiple times throughout the day, try to limit yourself. If you really want to snack, try to choose foods with cleansing properties, these include:

• Apples
• Carrots
• Celery

5. Using Your Teeth as Scissors

We’ve all been guilty of using our teeth to open bags, packages or even bottle caps. However, this can actually ruin your teeth and cause chips or fractures. Next time you need to open something, save yourself the damage and reach for a pair of scissors instead. 

 Dr. D.K Mittal is a dentist in Winnipeg and the owner of Greenwoods Dental Centres. His passion for dentistry inspired him to establish three other offices in Winnipeg, Lundar, and Lorette. He has been practicing dentistry for over two decades and achieved Canadian accreditation in 1999 after completing advanced restorative courses at the University of Western Ontario. Dr.Mittal is committed to continuing education and remains on the cutting-edge of advanced dentistry techniques.