Would you go weeks without showering? What about not changing your socks for a few days? Or how about letting your hair go uncut for a year or two? You’d never! These things just wouldn’t go over well because they’d begin to impact our health and wellness. But there are many things that we do or don’t do on a daily basis that may be damaging our teeth.
Some habits we develop can be just as bad for our teeth as not showering is to our health and cleanliness. Brushing, flossing and maintaining good oral health is about preventative maintenance that helps protect our pearly whites.
Dr. Maryam Adibfar – a leading Toronto dentist – has spent years help men, women and children across the city improve their oral health and maintain beautifully white teeth. “While visiting the dentist is one of the best ways to prevent oral health issues, there are also many things that you can do away from the dental office that can help keep your teeth healthy,” said Dr. Adibfar.
Let’s take a closer look at four common habits that are damaging your teeth. It starts by recognizing them and taking active steps to breaking them, because some people may not even be aware of them.
1. Brushing too hard
While brushing with a lot of force may seem like a good way to get rid of that stubborn bacteria and plaque, using too much force can actually be hurting your teeth. This common habit has the ability to damage your teeth’s enamel and irritate your gums. It’s recommended that you use a soft to medium-soft bristled toothbrush and apply gentle pressure for two minutes. “It’s not how hard you brush, but how smart your brush,” explains Dr. Maryam Adibfar, one of Toronto’s leading dental authorities.
2. Cleaning your teeth with wooden or plastic toothpicks
How often do you find yourself trying to get a piece of food out of your teeth with a wooden or plastic toothpick? They’re offered at many restaurants and are commonly used after a meal. It’s easy and they’re readily available, so that’s the problem? While it may seem like a great idea, toothpicks can damage your gums and your enamel. The next time you have something stuck in between your teeth, use floss. It’s much more effective and safer. “Consider packing a small pack of floss in your purse or pocket when you go out for dinner,” says Dr. Adibfar. “Your teeth and gums will thank you.”
3. Playing sports without a mouth guard
Do you play a contact sport? Maybe it’s hockey, football, soccer or lacrosse. Mouth guards are very important to keeping your teeth safe and healthy. Whether it’s a custom made mouth guard from your trusted dentist or the boil and form style mouth guards you can buy at your local sports store, these are critical to your overall oral health. “Wearing a mouth guard can prevent chips and cracks from impacts that are commonly experienced while playing our favourite sports,” said Dr. Maryam Adibfar. “I always recommend wearing a mouth guard, whether you’re a professional athlete, young rising star in high school or just playing for fun.”
4. Not relying on your dentist for support
You brush each morning and night for two minutes, you floss after meals, you wear a mouth guard during your hockey games, you rinse with mouth wash and you use teeth whitening products to keep your teeth sparking. If this sounds like you; you’re well on your way to having great teeth for years to come. But just because you have good habits and care about your teeth, it doesn’t mean you can skip your regular dental appointments. It’s important to think of your dental appointments, exams and cleanings as part of your oral health regime.
“Dentists are there to help keep your teeth as healthy as possible,” says Dr. Adibfar, one of Toronto’s leading dentists. “Regular dental check ups can ensure that any issues are caught well before they manifest into something serious. They can also help keep your teeth bright, white and beautiful.” Think of your dentist as your very own oral health partner. We promise it will pay off in the long run.
Next Steps
Do you have questions about how to make your teeth whiter or want to schedule check-up, teeth cleaning or routine exam? Contact us directly! Our team looks forward to seeing you.
And don’t forget to follow Dr. Maryam Adibfar on Facebook, Google Plus and Twitter for the latest dental tips, tricks and advice!
A BONUS Just for You!
When you refer a friend, family member or colleague to our office, you’ll receive a $25 gift card to a favourite local coffee shop.
Simply contact our Davisville dental team directly to make a referral! Now that you know how to combat stains, you can enjoy your coffee or tea to the fullest.