1.Juicing
It’s common to think that bloggers who frequently post pictures of fresh juice on Instagram are generally healthy, but it’s important to consider the potential impact on oral health. While drinking fresh juice can have benefits for gut health, it can also negatively affect oral health if consumed excessively.
2.Occasionally skipping brushing your teeth at night
If you neglect your nightly dental hygiene routine of brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, you will develop a poor habit that can have negative consequences. According to Chief Dental Officer of DentalCorp, Dr. Gary Glassman, people are more likely to find the time to brush their teeth in the morning because they want to start their day feeling and looking their best. However, those who don’t see the point in brushing their teeth before bed may simply forget to do it. According to Dr. Glassman, failing to brush your teeth before going to sleep can lead to an increase in acidity in your mouth, which can foster the growth of plaque and bacteria.
3.Not cleaning or replacing your toothbrush
According to Dr. Glassman, it’s important to replace your toothbrush every three months and whenever you have been sick. If you use an electric or power toothbrush, you can use the ultraviolet system to sanitize the brush head when you replace it. Alternatively, you can soak the brush head in mouthwash for 20 minutes to disinfect it.
4.Putting off your appointment
I understand that you may be busy with work, family responsibilities, and social activities, and that going to the dentist may not always be a top priority. However, delaying your dental appointment will only lead to more oral health problems in the future. As Dr. Glassman advises, “Don’t skip your check-ups. It’s all about prevention, prevention, prevention.” It’s important to prioritize your dental health and make time for regular check-ups to prevent issues from arising.
5.Brushing your teeth after drinking coffee
“Most people think that you should brush their teeth right after drinking coffee to help fight staining and bad breath, but that actually is not correct,” Courtney Schiefelbein, a board certified orthodontist in New York City, told me. “Those beverages are so acidic that if you brush immediately after, you will cause more damage to your enamel because of the acid. Like they say, patience is a virtue. It’s actually better to wait at least 30 minutes before you brush for the pH in your mouth to naturally neutralize. If you want a cleaner feeling right after you sip on your cup of joe, go for a rinse with water or a fluoride mouth rinse.”
6.Drinking sports drinks
Many people believe that sports drinks are healthy because they contain electrolytes and are marketed towards active individuals. However, according to Katie Polley, DMD of Summerville Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, sports drinks can sometimes be worse than soda. These beverages are often high in sugar, and people may consume more of them than they would soda, leading to an increase in sugar intake and an increased risk of cavities. It’s important to be mindful of the sugar content in sports drinks and to consume them in moderation to protect your oral health.
7.Snacking throughout the day
My habit of grazing throughout the day, rather than eating full meals, may keep me feeling full and energized while I work, but it can actually be detrimental to my oral health. Grazing frequently can expose my teeth to sugar and acid in food and drinks, increasing the risk of tooth decay and other oral health issues. It’s important to be mindful of the impact that grazing can have on my dental health and to take steps to protect my teeth and gums.
