Habits that damage your teeth
By Vayianni Solakidou
Oral health is closely linked to our overall well-being. Nevertheless, many everyday habits we consider harmless—or simply overlook—can actually cause serious damage to our teeth. From nail biting to excessive sugar consumption, our teeth suffer wear and tear that could be avoided with a few simple changes.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common harmful habits and how we can protect our smile for years to come:
1. Nail Biting
Many of us bite our nails when we’re stressed, but this seemingly innocent habit can severely harm our teeth. The pressure applied can cause micro-cracks in the enamel or even alter the shape of the front teeth. Additionally, bacteria hiding under the nails can be transferred into the mouth, increasing the risk of infections.
If you find it hard to control this habit, try keeping your nails well-groomed or use special nail polishes that discourage biting.
2. Using Teeth as Tools
How many times have you used your teeth to open packaging or a bottle? While it may seem like a quick solution, this action puts immense pressure on your teeth, increasing the risk of cracks, fractures, and even gum injuries.
Always use the appropriate tools, like a bottle opener, to avoid unnecessary strain on your teeth.
3. Excessive Sugar Consumption
Sodas, energy drinks, sweets—while undeniably tempting, excessive consumption puts your teeth at risk. The acids produced by sugar feed bacteria in the mouth, leading to tooth decay and enamel erosion.
Choose water or sugar-free drinks instead. If you can’t resist sugary beverages, drink them with a straw to reduce contact with teeth and rinse your mouth with water immediately afterward.
4. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding your teeth, often unconsciously during sleep, can wear down enamel, cause tooth sensitivity, and lead to jaw, ear, and temple pain. This habit is frequently linked to stress.
Consult your dentist about using a custom night guard to protect your teeth.
Prevention Strategies
Prevention is key to maintaining oral health. In short, prevention strategies include:
Education and Awareness: Understanding the consequences of harmful habits can lead to behavior change.
Regular Dental Visits: Routine check-ups can detect problems early and provide guidance on proper dental care.
Habit Replacement: Replacing bad habits with healthy alternatives, such as chewing sugar-free gum, can protect your teeth.
Conclusion
Managing habits that harm our oral health is vital. By avoiding—or at least limiting—the habits discussed and adopting healthier practices, we can ensure the long-term health of our teeth. It’s up to us to make the right changes for better dental health.
References
Gault, D., & Forouzan, F. (2021). The consequences of nail biting on dental health. Journal of Dental Research, 99(6), 1234–1240.
Nguyen, H., & Martin, S. (2020). Onychophagia and its oral manifestations: A systematic review. International Journal of Dentistry, 2020, 8–15.
Smekal, A. (2019). The impact of stress-induced habits on oral hygiene. Oral Health Journal, 45(4), 215–222.
Lee DK, Lipner SR. (2022). Update on Diagnosis and Management of Onychophagia and Onychotillomania. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 19(6):3392.