Ask a Dentist

May 12, 2023

Q: What Dental Habits Should I Leave Behind?

A healthy tooth standing and a fallen tooth with a cavity

Practicing good oral hygiene habits such as brushing, flossing and visiting your dentist regularly can help keep your teeth healthy and bright. But, some dental habits can harm your oral health. Do you have these bad dental habits?

Over Brushing Your Teeth

Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or over-vigorous brushing can put your mouth at risk for dental abrasion, tooth sensitivity and gum recession. To avoid these dental issues, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently brush your teeth in wide strokes. 

Teeth Grinding

This subconscious habit can result in damaged teeth, muscle pain and restricted jaw movement. Dental Image Therapy Centres can make a custom-fitted night guard to prevent further wear on your teeth. On top of that, our dentists can also provide tips on how you can reduce teeth grinding at night. 

Using Tobacco

All tobacco products are harmful to your teeth, whether you’re smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco. Tobacco usage increases your risk of gum disease, bad breath, dry mouth, tooth decay and oral cancer. Talk to your physician about programs to help you give up tobacco or visit this website for extra resources. 

Snacking On Sweet Treats

Foods high in sugar feed the bacteria in your mouth that cause tooth decay. Damaging acids form in your mouth every time you consume a sugary snack. The more often you snack throughout the day, the more often you feed the bacteria that cause cavities.

Avoiding Your Regular Checkups And Cleanings

Combining these bad habits with avoiding professional preventive dentistry can impact your oral health severely. Dentists make sure your oral health is up to par. They will treat problem areas in your mouth as soon as they can to ensure you’re not uncomfortable and in pain. You only have one set of teeth as an adult and your dentists will make sure you’re able to keep them for a long time. 

Don’t hesitate to reach out to any of our dental clinics located at St. Vital Centre and Garden City Shopping Centre. We offer comprehensive dental care services in Winnipeg. Schedule an appointment with us today to keep your teeth clean, healthy, and fresh.

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