Four Habits That Damage Your Teeth

The teeth are one of the first things we notice when talking with an individual for the first time. Although not everybody’s teeth can be sparkling white or shiny, it is appropriate to take care of your teeth to a reasonable level. Taking care of the teeth includes avoiding habits that can damage the teeth or shorten its longevity. Brushing twice daily also helps as it goes a long way in keeping bacteria present in the mouth at bay. Some of the common habits that damage the teeth are:

• Drinking cold liquids: Maybe you did not know, but drinking extremely cold liquids and allowing them to touch the teeth is not a good idea. When you drink something that is too cold and it hurts your teeth, the pain is felt but mostly ignored because it does not last long. However, the cold liquid causes pain because the teeth are sensitive to the low temperature. Over time, the teeth can become very sensitive and painful if care is not taken. If you must have cold drinks, ensure they do not touch the surface of your teeth.

• Opening bottles with teeth: This is a common habit that most people do not see as a big deal. Instead of using bottle openers, they prefer to use their teeth. What these people do not know is that the edge of the bottle cover can chip off their teeth little by little. It can scratch the surface of the teeth or gums leading to an injury or infection. The most appropriate thing to do is to use a bottle opener instead of exposing yourself to unnecessary risk.

• Eating too much candy: Sweets and candies do no good for the teeth, in fact, they contribute to the development of bacterial infections of the mouth. This is because the remnants of the sugar stay in the root of the teeth long enough to allow bacteria act on it and develop. These bacteria then cause various infections of the teeth and gum.

• Drinking strongly coloured beverages: If you must drink fizzy or coloured liquids, use a straw to prevent the drink from touching your teeth. Drinks such as cola and cocoa beverages have a strong colour that can stain the teeth and leave residues on them.

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jelifat

Opoola Jelifat is a young and passionate writer. She holds a B.Sc degree in Microbiology and enjoys reading, cooking and writing on real life issues. She is currently pursuing a Masters degree at the University of Ibadan. Contact her on opoolajelifat@gmail.com, and via Twitter and facebook by clicking the icons below.

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