No one wants their day derailed by a sudden dental emergency. Whether you accidentally bite down on something hard or try to open a package with your teeth, unexpected damage can occur, resulting in a visit to your dentist’s office. If you would rather keep your smile intact and unharmed, do not put these four things in your mouth.
Cool Down Another Way – Avoid Ice
Ice may help you cool down on a hot summer day, but if you are prone to eating it after drinking your beverage, you could find yourself in the dentist’s office with a damaged tooth. Fixing it may require a dental crown, especially if it cannot support itself adequately.
Because of its hard consistency, it’s best to either use a straw to sip your drink or go without ice to avoid being tempted.
Let Your Nails Grow – Don’t Bite Them
If you get nervous or tend to bite your nails out of boredom, find another way to pass the time. Biting your nails can cause small cracks in your tooth enamel, making your teeth increasingly sensitive over time. Engaging in this habit over time can lead to teeth grinding and clenching, which can also create problems for your jaw.
Enjoy Lemon in Your Water – Don’t Suck on Them
Feel free to squeeze a lemon into your water and enjoy a flavorful drink, but don’t be tempted to suck on what remains, as it can harm your teeth. Biting into a lemon lets its acidity coat your pearly whites. In excess, it can begin to break down your tooth enamel, resulting in sensitivity and possible decay. When enamel erodes, it can disrupt the pH balance in your mouth, increasing your risk of cavities.
Kick the Habit – Quit Smoking
Cigarettes, vape pens, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco are all harmful to your overall health and smile. Not only does nicotine affect the brain and body, but it also causes tooth stains and weakens your immune system. As a result, you may be more susceptible to gum disease and other similar dental issues. Also, smoking can lead to bad breath and, worse, oral cancer. With this dangerous disease taking one person’s life every hour in the U.S., there are multiple reasons why you should kick the habit sooner rather than later.
Give your teeth the care and attention they deserve. Keep it intact and undamaged by avoiding these items so that you can continue to enjoy life with a healthy, beautiful, and damage-free smile.
About Grand Dental – Aurora
At Grand Dental – Aurora, our dentists are well-equipped and trained to provide preventive and restorative treatment when necessary. We also offer emergency care when a problem occurs. However, we want to minimize the risk of damage by providing our patients with helpful tips to protect their teeth and gums. If you want to avoid a possible dental emergency in the future, visit our website or call (630) 538-8302 to schedule an appointment with one of our dentists.