Healthy Habits That Damage Teeth

01/12/2023 by admin in General Care, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

We all know an unhealthy diet combined with poor oral hygiene can certainly deteriorate your smile over time; however, certain lifestyle habits perceived to uplift your health have also been known to cause damage to your teeth in surprising ways. These actions may include: 

• Drinking lemon water throughout the day: Drinking water infused with lemons, limes, or oranges can be refreshing, but it’s generally best to consume fruit-infused beverages all at once rather than throughout the day. The acid from citrus fruits tends to cause enamel erosion if repeatedly exposed to the teeth over a prolonged time period. 
• Brushing your teeth too hard or aggressively: You may think brushing with excess force helps rid stains from the surface of your teeth, but the truth is aggressive brushing can cause gum recession and increase your risk of cavities and gum disease. 
• Brushing your teeth after every meal: Similar to how drinking fruit water all day can erode the enamel, brushing your teeth right after eating can also wear down the surface of your teeth. Enamel softens when exposed to the acidity of pasta sauce, fruits, and other foods, creating a greater risk of abrasion when one brushes directly after every meal. 
• Chewing on ice: While ice is technically healthier to chew on than candy, gum, or mints, the hard edges and cold temperature can leave your natural enamel (and/or any restorations) vulnerable to cracks, fractures, and hypersensitivity.

These habits do not usually cause serious harm to your smile, but if your teeth have been worn down by cracks, chipped enamel, or a mouth injury, we offer cosmetic and restorative treatments to repair the damage. Restorations like dental crowns and porcelain veneers can help reinforce weak teeth and restore healthy tooth proportions. The best approach to achieve your goals will depend on your needs and the dental work necessary to address your concerns. 

There are many seemingly healthy habits that can create unnecessary wear and tear on your smile. Fortunately, our multispecialty team of dentists can evaluate your teeth, gums, and mouth to identify potential issues and create a tailored plan to treat any damage. Contact Scripps Center for Dental Care to book an appointment or to speak with a member of our La Jolla office. 

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