Keeping your smile bright and healthy isn’t just about brushing and flossing—it’s also about maintaining good oral health by kicking some bad habits to the curb. At Trillium Dental in Portland, Oregon, Dr. Nicholas White and our dedicated team are here to guide you away from common pitfalls and towards a healthier, happier mouth.
1. Not Drinking Enough Water
Staying hydrated isn’t just good for your skin and energy levels—it’s crucial for your mouth too. Water helps wash away leftover food and residue that cavity-causing bacteria love to eat. Plus, it dilutes the acids produced by the bacteria in your mouth. Make a habit of sipping water throughout the day, and swap out those sugary drinks for a glass of H2O—your teeth will thank you!
2. Using Your Teeth as Tools
It’s tempting to just rip off that tag with your teeth or crack open a bottle when a tool isn’t handy, but these shortcuts can be costly. Using your teeth as tools can lead to chips and breaks. Save your teeth and grab scissors or a bottle opener instead. Your smile will thank you!
3. Grinding Your Teeth
Teeth grinding, especially during sleep, can wear your teeth down over time. It’s often related to stress or sleeping habits. If you wake up with a sore jaw or a headache, you might be grinding your teeth at night. Dr. White can help fit you with a mouthguard to protect your teeth while you sleep.
4. Snacking on Sugary Treats
We all love a sweet treat now and then, but frequent snacking on sugary foods can lead to tooth decay. Bacteria in your mouth love sugar as much as you do, turning it into harmful acids. Consolidate the sweets to mealtimes, and if you do indulge, make sure to brush or rinse your mouth afterward.
5. Smoking or Using Tobacco Products
Tobacco products, from cigarettes to chewing tobacco, are not only bad for your overall health but are disastrous for your oral health. They can stain teeth, cause gum disease, and increase your risk for oral cancer. If you’re ready to quit, ask us for support or resources—it’s never too late to improve your oral health.
6. Skipping Regular Dental Cleanings and Exams
Life gets busy, and it’s easy to think skipping a dental appointment here and there isn’t a big deal—but regular check-ups are vital. They help catch problems early, when they’re easier to treat, and keep your mouth in tip-top shape.
Stay on Top of Your Oral Health With Trillium Dental
Keeping your smile safe isn’t just about avoiding the bad stuff; it’s about embracing the good habits too, like regular visits to Trillium Dental. Dr. White and our friendly team are here to keep you smiling and steer you clear of common dental dangers.
If it’s been a while since your last appointment or if you’re looking for a dental home that really cares about your pearly whites, give us a shout! We’d love to meet you and show you why we’re known for making smiles shine in Portland.
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