If you listened to what you were taught as a child, you’re still faithfully brushing and flossing twice a day. But you may still be guilty of doing things that could damage your teeth.

These are some of the common mistakes people make that keep dentists in business.

  1. Using your teeth as tools It’s so tempting to try to open a packet – or worse, a bottle – with your teeth, but… just don’t. You may crack a tooth, or even lose it entirely. Rather use a tool that doesn’t have to last you until you die.
  2. Chewing on ice
    This can cause small cracks in the enamel of your teeth, which can result in chips or fractures over time.
  3. Drinking soft drinks and sports drinks
    The high sugar and acid content of these beverages can damage the enamel, causing cavities, sensitivity and tooth decay. Water is your best bet.
  4. Brushing too hard
    Over time, brushing too vigorously will file off the top layer of the tooth, exposing the layer beneath. The result? Cavities, sensitivity and painful gums. Gently does it.
  5. Using toothpaste or toothbrushes with charcoal
    Charcoal is extremely abrasive, and isn’t good for your teeth. While it can offer whitening effects, it’s not a long-term solution.
  6. Picking your teeth
    Whether with your fingers, nails or wooden tooth- picks, this nasty habit can result in injury to and infection in the gums, and cracks in the teeth. Stick to gentle flossing, and, if you struggle to dislocate a piece of food from your teeth, see your dentist.

Bottom line

Your teeth need to last you a lifetime, so you should treat them with care. While they may be tough (and made of one of the hardest tissues known to man), they do break, crack and chip if subjected to continual damage. See your dentist promptly if you feel your teeth need attention. The sooner you can get a problem fixed, the better the prognosis.

Written by LifeAssist