10 Bad Dental Habits to Break

1. Brushing too hard
Using a firm-bristled toothbrush and too much pressure can permanently wear away protective enamel {triggering tooth sensitivity and cavities} and cause receding gums. Instead, use a soft brush and gentle, circular scrubbing motions for two minutes at least twice a day. When buying a toothbrush, consider that compact heads move most easily around small mouths and long, flexible handles are better than short, stiff ones for reaching back molars.

2. The wrong toothpaste
A number of toothpastes, especially those claiming "tartar control," are too abrasive. Anything that feels gritty can erode your tooth enamel and cause receding gums. Fluoride is the only ingredient you need.

3. Not flossing
Bacteria on your teeth can develop into plaque, the leading cause of cavities and gum disease, in 24 hours. Flossing once a day is essential for removing plaque {Flossing is using either a bundle of thin nylon filaments or a plastic ribbon to remove food and dental plaque from teeth.}

4. Drinking lots of carbonated drinks {coke, fanta, diet coke}
Carbonated sodas—both diet and regular—contain phosphoric acid, which can erode teeth over a period of time. Use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth and brush afterwards.

5. Foods that stain
Tooth enamel is like a sponge. Anything that leaves a stain in a cup or on a plate (for example, coffee, tea) will give teeth a dull, yellowish color over time. Before you use whitening toothpaste, remember that they can brighten teeth a few shades, but they tend to be harsh on the enamel.

6. Frequent snacking
Every time you eat something, especially sugary or starchy food, the bacteria that normally live in your mouth create acids to break down the food. But these acids can also attack teeth, leading to decay. Eating raw, firm fruits and vegetables (like apples and carrots) with and after meals can help, they are considered to be nature's toothbrushes because of their detergent-like effect on plaque.

7. Using teeth as tools
Opening bottle corks, ripping packets or nylons and loosening knots with your teeth can lead to cracks and breaks and damage fillings and existing dental work. Also risky: Chewing ice cubes, frozen chocolate bars or hard sweets.

8. Overlooking dental problems
Bleeding gums and chronic bad breath are features of gum disease. Fight bad breath by drinking enough water to keep your mouth moist (water and saliva help control bacteria) and remove excess bacteria on the tongue with a tongue scraper. Bleeding gums can be prevented by brushing and flossing daily. If symptoms persist after a few days, consult your dentist.

9. Avoiding the dentist
Twice-yearly cleanings are recommended to maintain a healthy tooth and detect any developing gum disease. If you have an existing gum disease, you might actually need to see a dentist every three months or on your appointment days.

10. Ignoring your lips
No matter how white your teeth are, your smile still won't shine if it is framed by dry, cracked lips. Using a moisturizing balm daily will help keep lips soft and smooth.




If you want your teeth to sparkle like this, make sure you stop these bad habits.
Your teeth is usually the first thing people notice about you.
Make a lasting impression with your smile.