3 Bad Habits That Can Damage Your Oral Health

Oral health is vital to your overall health and well-being. Practicing good oral hygiene habits can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. On the other hand, there are some habits that can damage our oral health. Here are some of them.

• Smoking

Has the best dentist in Modesto, CA, ever told you to quit smoking before a procedure? That’s because cigarette smoke has large amounts of chemicals called nicotine and tar in it. Both of these substances cause staining and yellowing of the teeth. Nicotine also causes dry mouth, which can increase tooth decay rates. Smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products can also cause many oral health problems, oral cancer, tooth damage, gum disease, and tooth loss. Younger people exposed to secondhand smoke may also experience tooth decay as a result of being exposed to nicotine.

If you’re having trouble kicking the habit on your own, talk to your Modesto, CA, dentist about ways to quit. They might have gum or prescription medication that could help them kick the bad habit of cigarettes for good.

• Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is another common problem for many people. Tooth grinding can be caused by stress, anxiety, or even sleep disorders. It is important to speak with your Modesto, CA, dentist if you are experiencing jaw pain that you think, may be caused by bruxism. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent damage to your teeth, such as tooth fractures, loosening of teeth, and jaw pain. Bruxism can also cause headaches, earaches, and even facial pain. Some people have found that wearing a mouth guard at night helps to alleviate the discomfort caused by grinding.

• Not Visiting Your Modesto, CA, Dentist Regularly

Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day are important habits for a healthy mouth. However, these habits mean nothing if you don’t go visit the best dentist in Modesto, CA, twice a year for a checkup and cleaning. If you have gum disease or tooth decay, you won’t be able to simply continue your at-home oral care routine. You will need professional help from the Modesto, CA, dentist if you want to keep your teeth! If you’re following a good oral hygiene regimen at home but still have problems with your teeth, you should see your Modesto, CA, dentist, who will be able to diagnose and treat your specific issues. If you are due for your next cleaning and checkup, call our dental office to schedule an appointment today.

Give us a call today to schedule your appointment! We would be happy to answer any of your questions about dentistry procedures in Modesto, CA. You can book an appointment with our dentist in Turlock, CA, at the dental office by calling (209) 668-3736 or our dentist in Modesto, CA, at the dental office by calling (209) 409-8839.