If you brush and floss your teeth on a daily basis and schedule regular visits with your family dentist, you might think that you are doing everything possible to maintain optimal oral health. However, you may be engaging in seemingly harmless habits that damage your teeth over time. Here are a few common habits that are bad for your teeth.

Brushing Your Teeth With Too Much Force

Brushing your teeth aggressively will not get them cleaner any faster. Using too much force can actually weaken your enamel eventually and make your teeth more susceptible to cracks and chips. To avoid hurting your teeth, always brush them very gently.

Biting Your Nails

If you bite your nails when you're anxious, you are not alone. Nail-biting is a pretty common habit. However, you might not be aware that the habit can harm your teeth. After a while, you may notice that your teeth have cracks and chips.

To quit this habit, try to identify triggers that cause you to bite your nails in the first place. You may also consider cutting your nails short.

Opening Things With Your Teeth

Even though your teeth are hard, you should never use them to open bottles or other items. Doing so can result in chips and cracks.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is a fairly common habit and can do a number on your teeth. This habit can wear down your enamel and make your teeth more susceptible to damage. If you often wake up with jaw pain or headaches, you likely grind your teeth while you sleep. Your family dentist can give you a custom mouth guard to prevent further damage.

Waiting Too Long to Replace Your Toothbrush

No matter how much you are attached to your current toothbrush, you have to get rid of it eventually. After a while, the bristles will get worn out and will not be able to remove plaque from your teeth. To play it safe, remember to replace your toothbrush every three months.

Snacking Too Often

Frequent snacking does not just lead to weight gain. It can also increase the risk of cavity-forming bacteria in your mouth. To avoid tooth decay, try to limit snacking as much as possible.

If you avoid these common habits, you can maintain healthy teeth. If you have more questions, you should contact a family dentist. They can provide additional information regarding preventative dental care.

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