Your smile is a reflection of who you are. It reveals your confidence levels and evokes your unique beauty. However, the foundation of your beautiful smile is good oral health. That’s why we don’t just focus on cosmetic dentistry at our practice. We offer a wide array of solutions for your dental care needs. So, as we look forward to turning back the clocks, we wanted to review a few bad dental habits you want to avoid this time of year.
- Neglecting Regular Oral Hygiene:
Consistency is essential when it comes to oral hygiene. So, this fall season, make sure to stick to your oral care routine. Brush your teeth twice daily and flossing once daily will prevent the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on teeth surfaces.
You’ll also want to get your next cleaning and exam scheduled. Skipping dental check-ups might seem inconsequential, but these appointments serve as crucial opportunities for us to catch issues early. Neglecting these habits can lead to serious oral health issues such as cavities and gum disease.
- Overindulgence in Sugary Foods and Drinks:
Sugary foods and beverages may satisfy your taste buds, but they can wreak havoc on your teeth. Unfortunately, there are a lot of temptations this year, especially with Halloween candy lingering around and the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. So, try to cut down on how much you indulge this time of year, making sure to brush 30 minutes after your favorite treats. Balance it out with nutritious foods and drinking plenty of water.
- Using Teeth as Tools:
It’s tempting to use your teeth as a convenient tool, whether it’s tearing open packaging or cracking open a bottle of soda or your favorite brew. However, your teeth are designed for chewing, not as multi-purpose tools. Relying on them for tasks they weren’t intended for can lead to immediate and long-term consequences. You risk chipping, cracking, or even breaking them. So, grab a pair of scissors or a bottle opener the next time you are tempted to use your teeth.
- Excessive Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is often an involuntary response to stress, anxiety, or even an irregular bite. And there are plenty of reasons to be stressed this time of year! Unfortunately, this habit, which can occur during both daytime and sleep hours, takes a toll on your oral health. The grinding motion wears down tooth enamel, causing tooth sensitivity and increasing the risk of cavities. If you struggle with nighttime teeth grinding, we can create a bite guard that acts like a barrier between your teeth.
- Ignoring Dental Pain or Discomfort:
While occasional tooth sensitivity or discomfort might not seem alarming, it’s crucial not to ignore these signals. Delaying treatment can lead to the problem worsening, and lead to expensive and extensive solutions. If you notice pain when you bite or chew food, or bleeding when you brush and floss, give us a call for treatment. Even if it’s a minor concern, getting help when you need it is the best thing for your smile.
As we embrace cooler temperatures and all the exciting holidays that come with this time of year, you want to prioritize your dental health. By avoiding these bad dental habits, you’ll ensure your smile stays beautiful and healthy for years.
Call Smile Chicago today at 872-204-0824 to schedule an appointment in Chicago, IL. You can also request an appointment online.
