Have you ever wondered why your teeth aren’t as healthy as you’d like them to be? You do everything the dentist says – be it brushing twice a day, or being a regular at the check-ups. But, brushing your teeth and flossing regularly isn’t enough! Here are 11 habits that ruin our teeth and keep them from looking perfect!
1. Aerated Drinks
Yes, soda. We know how much you like your soda – we do, too! However, drinking aerated products can harm your teeth. The phosphoric and citric acids present in sodas can erode the enamel that protects the teeth. Keep a check on how many sodas you drink. Too much can hurt the teeth.1
2. Grinding Teeth
Most of us grind out teeth during unpleasant, or uncomfortable situations. Did you know that we also grind teeth while sleeping? Grinding your teeth can affect the enamel, that could lead to tooth decays.
3. Coffee
Bad news for all the caffeine addicts out there! The acid present in the coffee decays the teeth, and also plays a part in discoloration! If you find yourself with a slightly yellow tooth, even though you brush your teeth regularly, you now know why!
4. Candy
Mommy was always right! Candy contains excessive sugar, which causes cavities and tooth decay. Hard candies, especially, have a massive sugar coating that can speed up the decaying. The hard candies are also rough on the teeth, and could crack the enamel!
5. Using Your Teeth As A Tool
We’re all guilty of having done this! Often, when we don’t find a bottle opener around, we tend to bite open the bottle. Not only does biting into the hard metal cap damage the enamel, you could also risk losing a tooth!
6. Brushing Too Hard
Brushing more than required, or brushing roughly causes more harm than good. It hurts the gums and is hard on the teeth. Always use a soft toothbrush and brush your teeth with moderate pressure.
7. Oily Food
We know how hard it is to resist a bag of chips. But always remember to wash your mouth after munching on oily food. If left as is, the oil sticks to the tooth, and causes decay.2
8. Chewing Ice Cubes
Chewing on ice cubes can cause a crack in your tooth, and lead to a toothache. The ice can also hurt your tooth and damage the enamel, especially if you have sensitive teeth.
9. Smoking
Smoking is a no-no. From discoloration to causing oral cancer, smoking is dangerous to your teeth. If you want healthy, perfect teeth, it is wise to quit smoking.3
10. Red Wine
Red wine contains chromogen, a pigment responsible for its color. If you don’t rinse your mouth after drinking red wine, chromogen can cause discoloration of the teeth. If you regularly have the drink, the pigment could leave a permanent stain on the teeth.
11. Playing Sports Without Protective Gear
If you are a sports enthusiast, and regularly participate in sports like Cricket, Basketball, or Baseball, always wear protective gear. Accidents that involve the teeth are common in these sports. You not only face a severe toothache, but also risk losing a tooth!
Along with brushing every day, ensure that you keep these habits at bay to sport a perfect set of teeth!
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