Everybody knows that certain events, like bike accidents or contact sports, can lead to sudden dental damage. What many people don’t know, however, is that much of the dental damage that our Saint Louis dentists correct is due to everyday habits and substances; this type of damage develops and intensifies over time.
With this in mind, our dental team is going to be talking about some common issues that can lead to serious dental damage. Please read through this short article so that you can tweak your daily routine in order to protect your smile.
The first thing that you want to do is to drink plenty of water, and if possible, drink water rather than drinking other substances. Water helps your body to make saliva, and saliva fortifies your teeth. When you sip on soda all day, you weaken your dental enamel and leave it prone to infection and fracture.
If you are someone who regularly chews on ice or hard candies, please try to stop this harmful habit ASAP! These hard substances cause micro-cracks in dental enamel, which often become more severe over time. Make sure that when consuming ice or hard candies/lozenges you allow them to dissolve naturally in your mouth.
Another habit that can lead to cracks and thinned dental enamel is bruxism (chronic dental grinding). Many patients find themselves doing this without even realizing it, especially when they get stressed. If you think that you may be suffering from this issue, let your dentist know. He or she can help you figure out how to protect your teeth from the daily grind of bruxism.
Our Saint Louis dentists are always here to answer your questions and give you the advice you need to stay well. So give us a call if you want more information, or if you’d like to schedule a consultation!