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Monday, April 8, 2013

WebMD: Bad Dental Habits



Forgetting the Basics

In order to maintain good oral hygiene, it’s important to brush at least twice a day, floss daily, eat a well-balanced diet and visit your dentist for regular check-ups with a dentist. Not only does brushing your teeth help prevent tooth decay (destruction of tooth structure), it also helps prevent gum disease, which is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults and has been linked to heart attacks and strokes. Regular check-ups and cleanings can prevent these problems as well as provide you with good oral hygiene. Removing tooth stains and avoiding bad breath are added benefits of brushing and flossing your teeth.

Gummy Candy

All sugary treats promote tooth decay, but some candies are harder to bare. Gummies stick in the teeth, keeping the sugar and resulting acids in contact with your enamel (hard white substance covering the crown of a tooth) for hours. If your day just isn't the same without a gummy critter, pop a couple during a meal instead of as a separate snack. More saliva is produced during meals, which helps rinse away candy bits and acids

Playing Sports Without a Mouth Guard

Whether you play football, hockey, or any other contact sport, don't get in the game without a mouth guard. This is a piece of molded plastic that protects the upper row of teeth. Without it, your teeth could get chipped or even knocked out when the action gets rough. Self-fitting mouth guards may be purchased at a store, or you can have one custom made by your dentist.

For more dental habits to avoid, visit webmd's website.

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