• 26 AUG 21
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    Are Some of Your Healthy Habits Damaging Your Teeth?

    Are Some of Your Healthy Habits Damaging Your Teeth?

    There are some healthy habits people engage in that may actually damage your teeth. When you develop habits to improve your well-being, you might not always be aware of the problems they could cause for your teeth.  Following are some healthy practices that could also be damaging your teeth.

     

    Don’t Brush Your Teeth Right After You Eat 

    Brushing your teeth is essential, but the timing of when you brush is important. When you eat or drink something acidic, your tooth enamel temporarily softens and becomes susceptible to abrasive wear. If you brush your teeth while they are in this softened state, you can remove tooth enamel, which can lead to sensitive teeth. To protect your teeth, wait 30 to 60 minutes after eating these types of foods before you brush. End your meal with dairy products, such as milk or a slice of cheddar cheese, which will raise the pH inside your mouth and release calcium and other substances that fight plaque. You can also rinse your mouth by swishing some water.

     

    Be Careful How You Brush

    Some people “scrub” their teeth, which overstresses the gum tissue and causes your gum line to recede. Overly vigorous cleaning can cause your teeth to be sensitive as the protective layer of enamel erodes. Brush gently for at least two minutes twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. The goal is to remove food particles without damaging the gums and enamel.

     

    Lemon Water

    Fresh lemon juice is a popular trend that provides many health benefits; it aids digestion, strengthens your immune system, and cleanses your body of toxins. It can also be very harmful to your tooth enamel by raising the level of acid in your mouth. If you sip it over a prolonged period of time throughout the day, you’re constantly bathing your teeth in an acidic solution. If you’ve noticed that your teeth are sensitive to hot and cold, cut back on the lemon water and use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

     

    Fruit Juice

    Fruit juice contains multiple vitamins and antioxidants which are healthy for you, but most of these drinks also contain as much sugar as a can of soda. Fruits are naturally sweet, so look for juice that has no added sugar. You can also dilute the juice with some water to reduce the sugar content. Citrus juices are also acidic which are a major offender when it comes to enamel erosion.

     

    Some Medications Can Cause Dry Mouth

    If you take prescribed medications for a chronic health condition, one of the side effects may be a dry mouth. This can put you at a greater risk of developing tooth decay. Dry mouth from medication is due to the medicine decreasing the flow of saliva, which helps protect your teeth. Sip water throughout the day to keep your mouth rinsed out and you can also increase saliva flow with sugarless gum, sugar-free mints and other products designed specifically for dry mouth.

     

    Regular Dental Examinations Are Essential

    Studies show that up to ninety-eight percent of all dental disease can be avoided by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day, along with regular dental check-ups. 

    Dr. Angela S. Evanson, DDS has proudly served her patients of all ages with comprehensive dental care since 1994. Located in Parker, Colorado, her office is easily accessible to the surrounding communities of Highlands Ranch, Aurora, Castle Rock and Lone Tree.

    Call our office at (720) 409-0008 or contact us online to make an appointment, then pat yourself on the back for establishing healthy habits! Just make sure you’re not damaging your teeth in the process!

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