Like many of the patients we see at our Kelowna dental centre, you probably do what you can to take care of your teeth. However, you might be surprised to learn that you also have a handful of bad dental habits that are actually preventing you from having the healthy smile you deserve.
There’s more to strong teeth and gums than just brushing, flossing, and getting a check up at your Kelowna dental clinic. In fact, the way you brush and how you use your teeth the rest of the day can make a big difference in your oral care.
6 bad dental habits you can overcome for healthy teeth and gums:
1. You need a new toothpaste. Every mouth is different. Depending on your teeth, you might not want a baking soda-based toothpaste because they can be tough on enamel. Another organic toothpaste you’ve found at the market might have a nice taste but not do enough to reduce the bacterial levels in your mouth. Talk to your Kelowna dentist to see which toothpaste is best for you.
2. Your toothbrush is too hard. A soft-bristled toothbrush is less likely to cause gum abrasions that can damage your teeth and surrounding gums. This is especially important as you age and your gums expose more of your teeth and become more sensitive. Some people find electric toothbrushes help scrub teeth and get into tricky spots without rubbing your gums. We have some to choose from that have contributed to impressive oral changes in our patients.
3. You crunch ice and popcorn kernels with your teeth. Those freezing ice cubes at the bottom of your pop cup can crack your enamel and fracture your teeth. If you really have a thing for ice, crushed ice is slightly better. You can also stress your teeth by crunching popcorn kernels and the pits of fruit such as peaches. As Kelowna dentists who see the wear of crunching on patients gums every day, we suggest simply doing your teeth a favour and chewing xylitol gum instead!
4. Your flossing technique needs help. Flossing is mandatory. If you want to keep your teeth free of bacteria and sugary food particles to prevent tooth decay, you need to floss regularly. And you need to do it right. At our Kelowna dental centre, we show patients the Bass flossing technique. It stresses that you don’t saw! Just wipe up and down either side of the tooth to get rid of plaque.
5. You need to rinse at the end. Brushing and flossing are just the start. To make sure all that bacteria you’ve just scrubbed away is gone for good, you need to rinse afterward. Look for a gentle, germ-killing mouthwash that’s alcohol-free. Our Kelowna dental clinic recommends that this can also be made easier with a fluoride rinse which helps to prevent cavities too.
6. You grind your teeth. It’s a common condition and you might not even be aware that you’re doing it. If you wake up with a sore jaw or suffer headaches, you might subconsciously be grinding your teeth at night or during the day. In the long-term, you could be wearing down your teeth. Visit your Kelowna orthodontist or dentist for a consultation and the best solution.
7. You use your teeth as a tool. Many guys in construction put nails between their teeth and it shows – Dr. Visscher can usually guess what they do for a living based on how people wear their teeth out with common, although harmful habits. Make sure you aren’t doing it without thinking about it!
Whether you’re visiting us for cosmetic or general dentistry, we provide a comfortable experience with results that will last. Contact us to book an appointment today!
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