Stop biting your nails! You’ve heard that from grandma before, but not only was she trying to keep you from putting your dirty fingernails in your mouth, she may have also been trying to save your teeth! But was she correct? Here are some of the things that can affect your teeth that you may not have even thought about.  

Nervous habits: Finger nail biting goes under this category. Also found on this list are chewing pen caps and pencil erasers and other objects. Not only is this unsanitary, but you can also chip the enamel on your teeth. 

Chewing Ice: It takes a lot of force to “break the ice” and that type of force exerted on your teeth on a regular basis can lead to fracture.

Occupational and hobby habits: A contractor might hold nails, or a tailor might hold sewing needle in their teeth. A fisherman might bite his fishing line. None of this should become a regular habit because damage will be done to enamel.  

Thumb sucking and Pacifiers: When there is something like a thumb or pacifier in the way your child’s teeth cannot fully push out into their normal position. When the upper and lower front teeth don’t come together this is called an open bite. This can often be fixed with orthodontics, but sometimes a long-time habit can result in an underdeveloped jawbone.  

Brushing too hard: Brushing with a heavy sawing motion will cause gum wear and recession and can lead to wear in your enamel too. The key is to use a soft or very soft brush with light, small, circular or up and down motions. Remember: if you brush twice daily for two minutes daily buildup will be minimal and you’ll need very little force to remove the small amount of soft plaque and food.  

Of course, this list can go on and on. If you have any questions about habits that you may have, come into CrossKeys Dental for an evaluation today!

_______________________________________________

CrossKeys Dental is located at 110 CrossKeys Office Park in Fairport. Dr. DuPre՛ and Dr. Badali provide comprehensive family dentistry and are always welcoming new patients. Visit us at www.CrossKeysDentalFairport.com for more information. 

         © 2017 CrossKeys Dental in Fairport, NY by Vince Badali, DDS