There are a number of everyday substances and habits that can really take a toll on your smile. Our Orland Park dentists are here to help you recognize these threats to healthy teeth. So keep reading to learn more about the dental threats for which you should look out.
1. Foods and drinks
It is important to remember that every thing that you eat and drink comes into contact with your teeth. Acidic substances—especially fruit juices, citric fruits, and coffee/soft drinks—can weaken your enamel. This puts you at risk for dental staining, cavity development, and structural dental damage.
Additionally, foods and drinks that are high in sugars and processed carbohydrates can harm your oral health. Harmful oral bacteria love to feed on these substances; sugars help bacteria to grow and multiply. The more harmful bacteria in your mouth, the greater your risk of suffering from cavities and gum disease.
2. Harmful habits
There are also small, sometimes unconscious, behaviors that can put your smile at risk. One very common harmful habit is chewing on hard candies and/or ice. This habit, over time, can cause microcracks in your enamel. Eventually these cracks become more severe, and your tooth becomes damaged.
Another problematic action is dental grinding or clenching (you might hear your dentist call this “bruxism”). Many people grind their teeth, without even realizing it, due to stress and muscle tension. The problem is that this habit puts an enormous amount of pressure on your enamel, and thus weakens it over time.
The sooner you are able to recognize these oral health red flags, the better your long-term oral health prognosis. Keep your eyes open for these threats to healthy teeth, and definitely talk to your dentist if you need help addressing these issues.
Our Tinley Park dentists are here to provide you with the guidance and support that you need, so give us a call!