Even if you brush your teeth every day and you take great care of your orthodontia, you can still hurt your smile and prompt misalignment. There are numerous activities and habits — ones you may not even notice — that are harmful to your overall oral health. While each one may not seem like a big deal, when you do so habitually, it can wreak havoc on your teeth. In today’s blog, your Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist discusses some bad habits that can harm your smile.
Teeth Grinding
If you grind and clench your teeth, you may not even be aware that you are doing it. Persistently doing so, especially unconsciously, is known as bruxism, and it can be very harmful. It is often tied to anxiety and it can wear down your enamel. Whether you do it during the day or while you are asleep, it is a habit you want to break as soon as possible. If it persists, it can cause jaw misalignment, which can lead to TMJ Disorder. If you do, in fact, suffer from bruxism or TMJ, your dentist or orthodontist can create a custom nightguard that will help protect your smile.
Chewing Ice
We get it, chewing ice can be a bit addicting; it feels cool and refreshing. With that said, it can damage and chip your teeth. At a certain point, you may even need cosmetic procedures done to mask and repair the damage incurred. If you can’t seem to break the habit yet, try using a straw to minimize the chances of you chewing ice.
Opening Things With Your Teeth
This can cause similar damage to chewing ice but can be even worse. Not only can it crack your teeth, but it can also cause them to become out of place and damage your jaw. If either one of these occurs, you might need braces or a clear aligner to get everything back into its proper position.
Sucking Your Thumb
While thumb sucking is normal for kids until they are about three, beyond that, it can lead to teeth and jaw changes. It can cause teeth to move too far forward or cause increased gaps. It can also cause a high-arched palate, which can then prompt issues with speech. Overall, if your child is older than three and is sucking their thumb, be sure to speak with their doctor or dentist to find a solution.
Brushing Too Hard
Although you need to be vigilant about brushing your teeth, be sure not to do it too vigorously. It can wear away your enamel even damage your gums, raising your susceptibility to cavities. With this in mind, consider using a soft-bristled brush and applying less pressure.
Contact Us To Learn More About Bad Habits
If you have any questions or want some tips, we are here for you. To schedule an appointment, please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. We also work with patients who live in Springtown, Rome, and all surrounding communities.
