Being at work can be really stressful sometimes. When this happens, you may find yourself doing any number of things that are bad for your teeth without even realizing it.
Chewing on Nails, Pens, and Pencils
This is a hard habit to break, but the Academy of General Dentistry says failure to do so can lead to cracking, chipping, or wearing down your front teeth. This is especially true if you’re wearing braces while doing so. In this case you’re at risk of root resorption and tooth loss too.
Additionally, anyone who chews on any of these things are also at a greater risk for bruxism, which causes facial pain, headaches, tooth sensitivity or loss, and recessed gums. You’re also at risk of tearing and damaging your gum tissue and spreading bacteria that could make you sick.
Bouncing Your Oral Piercings Around in Your Mouth
Clicking your oral jewelry against your teeth places stress on the piercing. This can cause you to crack a tooth, especially if you accidentally bite down too hard on the piercing itself. It’s important that you’re gentle with your jewelry when you talk and chew, as well as avoid repeatedly clicking it around. If your piercing breaks in your mouth, it’s also possible you may choke on it causing a lot of other problems.
Biting Your Lips or Cheeks
Some people are in the habit of biting their lips or inner cheeks without even realizing that they’re doing it. Regardless of how comforting you may find it to engage in this activity, when you do so repeatedly you’ll cause your teeth to erode faster than they typically would.
Allow us to Help You
As your dentist, we care about your teeth and the habits you have that directly affect them. Whether you’re suffering from bruxism, gum problems, or you’ve cracked a tooth, contact us. We can help you.
