Many daily-use products and tasks can severely impact one’s oral hygiene. Long-term use of these products can impact bright smiles in a negative way. Read more in this blog to uncover the 5 things that people use nearly every day that may affect their dental health. Keep your smile shining by following advice from experts at Hudec Dental.
The Main Culprits of Aging Your Smile
Your smile says a lot about you, but everyday habits can make it look older than it really is. Here are five common behaviors that may be working against your teeth:
- Overuse of Whitening Kits
- Scrolling on Your Phone
- Chewing On Ice
- Grinding Your Teeth at Night
1. Overuse of Whitening Kits
Enamel is the hard external barrier that surrounds your teeth, protecting them from damage. Over-the-counter whitening kits can wear down the enamel on your teeth. When enamel breaks down, the teeth it once preserved become more sensitive. In extreme cases, teeth may become brittle or even appear translucent. Overusing these products can be severely detrimental to your oral health.
Instead of using typical whitening strips from a local drug store, consult with a dentist for a professional opinion on teeth whitening. At Hudec Dental, we serve as consultants on teeth whitening for hundreds of smiles. Our team can recommend the right products and a schedule to avoid wear and tear on your enamel. For long-term discoloration, explore our teeth whitening cosmetic dental services to see the confidence we can bring to your smile.
2. Scrolling on Your Phone
Are you reading this blog from a mobile device? Is your posture good? If you responded yes and then no, you may be currently aging your smile! That’s right, such a simple everyday task can negatively impact your oral health. There is a common posture called “tech neck” that describes the way in which humans have developed poor posture while using technology. Tech neck can lead to teeth grinding and added jaw tension. The combination of grinding and tension creates the perfect environment for frown lines and wrinkles to form around your mouth. Next time you catch yourself slouching, fix your posture. Your smile will thank you for years to come.
3. Chewing On Ice
Ice may seem harmless, but most people don’t realize the long-term impact it can have on their smile. Chewing on ice can lead to chipping away at your enamel. Keep in mind, fillings are the number one enemy of ice chewing. This mindless task can cause fillings to crack. The cracking has significant wear and tear on your teeth, aging them. Avoid chewing on ice to prevent cracking, but just in case you don’t, Hudec Dental offers restorative dental services to get your smile back.
4. Drinking Red Wine
After a long day at work, winding down with your partner and a glass of wine sounds perfect. You may rethink your routine after learning what red wine does to your teeth. Red wine can stain your enamel while simultaneously drying out your mouth. This combination leads to teeth becoming more discolored due to the lack of a barrier. In this environment, decay is more likely to occur. Tooth decay can age your smile years and put a damper on your confidence. Opt for white wine or a cocktail when putting your oral hygiene first.
5. Grinding Your Teeth at Night
Nighttime teeth grinding is a common occurrence for many, especially when under extreme amounts of stress. This constant grinding wears down your teeth and enamel. Teeth may become flat as a result and cause gum recession. To combat this, talk to your dentist at Hudec Dental. They may recommend you get fitted for a nightguard.
Find Dentists Near You That Care!
At Hudec Dental, we prioritize our patients’ dental health in every phase of life. From pediatric to senior dental care, our expert team of dentists provide insights to help clients stay out of the dental chair and enjoy their day-to-day life. Contact us today to find a Hudec Dental location near you.
