Break Dental Habits in 2020 with Helpful Tips from Our Cambridge Dentist

As the year comes to an end, resolutions are on the front of everyone’s mind and what they can do to make personal improvements in 2020. Resolutions can range from exercise to diet to therapy, all of which have their own benefits for every individual. When you’re looking to make improvements to your overall health, don’t forget about your smile. Below, our Cambridge dentist dives into dangerous and harmful habits we encourage you to break to get your dental health back on track.

 

Nail Biting

A common nervous habit, people bite their nails when they’re anxious or dealing with something stressful. If you continue to bite your nails, you could easily chip a tooth or have a negative impact on your jaw. Don’t hesitate to ask us what some tips are to avoid biting your nails, like fidgeting toys or types of nail polishes.

 

Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard

When you brush your teeth, remember to be gentle with your smile. Brushing aggressively doesn’t mean you’re getting a more efficient cleaning. In fact, you’re causing more damage to your smile than you realize! Instead of efficiently cleaning the surface of your teeth, you’re damaging the enamel. As it weakens, you’ll deal with dental sensitivity when drinking and enjoying hot and cold foods and drinks. Find a new toothbrush with soft bristles and, instead of “scrubbing” your teeth, “massage” them in gentle circles with the bristles to reach every area while providing a proper cleaning.

 

Grinding Your Teeth and Clenching Your Jaw

This stress-induced habit can easily crack and chip your teeth, as well as cause a lot of tension and discomfort in your jaw. It’s important to realize when it’s happening, since this action is seen as unconscious, and to react immediately to relax your jaw. Don’t be afraid to ask us about relaxation exercises, as well.

 

Constant Snacking

A common habit, due to either nerves or just to kill time, is snacking. There are countless delicious snacks available and we understand how hard it is to avoid them! But if you’re constantly putting your teeth to work, especially with harmful snacks like chips, candies, and cookies, your smile will quickly weaken. You’re at a higher risk for cavities and decay, so be sure to seriously cut back on the snacking and try to eat more balanced meals to keep you fuller for longer.

 

Do you have any other harmful dental habits you’re looking to break in 2020? Give our Cambridge dentist a call at (617) 547-1300 and we’ll happily set you up for a bright and shiny new year!