Let's look at the main ones:
- We do not brush our teeth (correctly): A very small percentage (35.4%) according to EOO data brushes their teeth twice most of the day, as is the right thing to do. The majority are satisfied with brushing once a day, while there are those who do not brush at all! Also, we tend to spend minimal time brushing or brushing incorrectly, exerting force and using very hard toothbrushes and corrosive toothpastes.
- We drink carbonated drinks: Frequent consumption of carbonated drinks hurts our teeth. Soft drinks, even mineral water, contain substances that damage the enamel and cause dental problems in the long run. It is good to rinse our mouth with water after consuming them.
- We open things with our teeth: The most common habit is to use our teeth to open a package or a bottle, or even hairpins for our hair. This habit can cause fractures and damage to our teeth.
- We consume a lot of "hidden" sugar: We all know how harmful sugar is for the health of our teeth, but even more dangerous is the "hidden" sugar. It is found in fruit juices, diet cereals, isotonic drinks, and even medicines (throat candies). Sugar stays in our teeth and allows bacteria to produce acids for hours.
- We snack constantly: During the day, especially if we work long hours or even if we stay at home, we tend to snack on various snacks. This only proves to be bad since small amounts of food are not able to produce enough saliva, leaving food debris left on the teeth for longer. An alternative is to limit snacks to two a day, or to choose healthier versions, such as carrot, apple, celery, low in sugar and starch.
- We smoke: Cigarettes and tobacco products in general, due to the pigments they contain, affect the colour of our teeth and change them over time, but not only that, the smoke dries our mouth and increases the plaque that develops on our teeth, causing gingivitis.
- We grit our teeth: Bruxism is often inherited, but many people have this habit in times of stress. The rubbing has the effect of rubbing the masticatory surfaces of the upper and lower jaws together. Unfortunately, most people do not understand this, mainly because they do it subconsciously or when they are asleep and informed by their dentist or orthodontist. The patient must treat the problem, otherwise it can lead to damage, thinning and decay of the teeth, headaches, difficulty chewing, and even broken teeth.
- Chewing ice cubes: It is a common habit for many, especially in the summer months when we enjoy our coffee or a cold drink, in the end to chew the ice cubes! It does not seem to be innocent at all, as they can crack or break a tooth, cause damage to the enamel or create a filling problem. If it becomes chronic, it is very likely that we will find that our teeth have become very sensitive to cold and hot drinks or even show frequent caries.
- We do not use dental floss: As we have mentioned, brushing our teeth is not enough. The toothbrush can not reach all points, such as between the teeth, so we use dental floss. It is good to include it in the hygiene of our teeth at least once a day.