There are often two schools of people – those who are a little too focused on their oral health, and those who aren’t thinking about their teeth and mouth quite enough. Both can be detrimental. Learn about five of the biggest hazards to your oral health.
Brushing Too Hard
You have good intentions when you wield that toothbrush, but scrubbing hard or scrubbing too often can lead to problems like gum recession, bleeding gums, and more. Good dental hygiene isn’t about how often you brush, it’s about how well you do it. So spruce up those pearly whites twice a day, floss once daily, and use a soft bristle brush. And keep up with preventive dental care by visiting your dentist for a professional tooth cleaning and exam every six months.
Going for the Bling
Tongue piercing isn’t quite as popular as it once was, but there are still those who opt for this bit of “accessorizing.” The risks are many – you could contract hepatitis, suffer from profuse bleeding, or accidentally swallow or inhale the piercing. An infection means your tongue could swell and obstruct your breathing. And, of course, there’s the stud itself, which many wearers of tongue rings tend to click against their teeth, causing cracks. Keep in mind that should you decide to remove the tongue ring, this piercing, similar to ear piercing, may not necessarily close completely.
Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth
Suffer from tension headaches, migraines, aching jaws, sore teeth, or morning headaches? Chances are, you’re clenching your teeth while sleeping. This can also lead to sore muscles in the face, neck, and back, as well as cracked or shifting teeth. If you suffer from any of these symptoms, consult with your dentist to determine if you are a good candidate for a tension suppression system, or even for orthodontia.
Taking Matters Into Your Own Hands
Here’s the fact: There’s only so much plaque you can remove on your own at home. Trying to remove the calculus that has hardened and attached itself to your teeth is unwise, especially if the only motivation is to try and avoid a dental visit. Dentists and hygienists are trained to use professional dental tools properly so that they only remove the plaque from your teeth and do not break or harm your teeth in the process. Maintain your regular dental visits and just brush and floss at home.
Getting Carried Away with Whitening
Over-bleaching can happen, and it can make anyone’s smile look translucent and bizarre, not to mention causing gum and tooth sensitivity. If you are addicted to using over-the-counter tooth bleaching products, consider getting a professional whitening to save yourself time, money, and effort – and to get a white smile that will last much longer and look much more natural. Many dentists offer an in-office whitening treatment in about an hour, or provide take-home whitening kits.
Contact Dr. Ken Cirka at his Philadelphia dental office to schedule your visit today.
