Go From Teeth to Gums in No Time

When it comes to oral health, most people don't realize that their every day habits may be leading to tooth rot. These mistakes can cost them time, money, and eventually their teeth. There are 7 common mistakes that make tooth rot just about a sure thing:

Mistake 1: Not brushing and flossing - during the night bacteria accumulate on teeth causing tooth decay, which break down tooth enamel. Brushing and flossing effectively in the morning can help remove these bacteria. And, an added bonus: it freshens your breath (your friends will thank you). It is also important to brush away all remnants of the day before bed so they don't have a chance to fester and grow. The American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and professional teeth cleaning, as dental cavities and periodontal disease are major causes of tooth loss.

Mistake 2: Eating too much of the "yummy stuff" - this is no secret. Sticky candies or treats, such as caramels and jolly ranchers, those are no brainers, but saltines and gold fish crackers? Those are actually worse. Saltine crackers are damaging to teeth because they're a fermentable and highly processed starch, which are higher on the glycemic index and break down into sugar much faster. Speaking of sugar, carbonated soft drinks and juices contain a large amount of sugar that erode tooth enamel. You teeth, like your body, need the right fuels to be strong and healthy. Fiber rich fruits and vegetables and dairy products help to produce saliva, and contain calcium and phosphates, which aid in protecting teeth and restoring minerals they may have lost.

Mistake 3: Medications - some medications can cause adverse affects on your mouth, such as dry mouth, which can lead to dental decay, gum disease, or periodontal disease. Other medications, such as cough drops, cough syrups and antacids, contain large amounts of sugar that just sit on your teeth. It's important to rinse thoroughly with water after ingesting these medications, or purchase the sugar free alternative. Those who abuse over-the-counter drugs, such as aspirin and asthma medications can experience tooth decay and tooth loss.

Mistake 4: Crunching, Grinding, and the human can opener - Crunching on ice or hard candy, grinding at night, and opening containers with your teeth can all lead to fractures of those nice pearly whites. Opening and crunching of objects may be easier habits to break than grinding at night, but wearing a bite splint can help prevent damage to teeth. Chewing on pens and other hard objects, including your fingernails (or toe nails), can do irreparable damage to your teeth. Give your poor teeth a break; not literally.

Now that you know the mistakes, how many of them are you making? Do you need help combating tooth decay? Be sure to seek qualified, experienced dental care for your health issues.

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