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In the previous article, you learned about some of the most common habits Michiganders have that are bad for their teeth. But old habits die hard, and there are too many of these damaging habits to fit into just one article. We’ve continued that list here so you’ll know what will happen to you if you don’t kick these habits.
6/ Eating whatever you want
With so many culinary temptations lurking around Ann Arbor, it’s difficult not to give in. It doesn’t matter how much you love the sticky sensation of taffy or the sugary decadence of pastries. They’re bad for your teeth, even if they make your taste buds happy. What’s more, potato chips, bread, corn, and nuts can leave behind starchy grits.
Consequences:
Tooth decay and lost wages from calling in sick to work due to the pain is the price you will pay if you insist on eating whatever you want. If you don’t drink water and brush your teeth right after eating such foods, you risk having tooth decay as well. Tooth decay will give you sleepless nights as well, no matter how much you want to brush it off.
7/ Biting your nails
Whether it’s because you have a job interview coming up or you’re watching a horror movie, you may not realise that you are biting your teeth already. Others simply bite their nails for no reason but to feel good.
Consequences:
Nail-biting damages your teeth in many ways. For one, it can cause your enamel to thin over time or chip its surface. Dirt from your nails can also latch onto your teeth and gums, bringing pathogens which can infect your mouth. This can result in a painful case of gum inflammation. These pathogens have far-reaching effects as well; the bacteria can give you diarrhoea if these germs reach your stomach. The teeth of frequent nail biters will also become crooked because the pressure of biting pushes their teeth out of their normal positions. You’ll have to undergo a costly procedure to realign your teeth.
8/ Forgetting to use a mouthguard
Although mouthguards play a crucial role in protecting your jaws and teeth from sudden impact, most people find these devices inconvenient and unfashionable. As such, they tend to forego a mouthguard when engaging in physical activities like biking, jogging, and other sports. People are confident that nothing will happen to them, so they don’t use a mouthguard.
Consequences:
A disfigured face and hefty surgery bill are in store for you when you forget to wear a mouthguard. You can slip, fall, and break your teeth in just one accident. Furthermore, the physical pain is just one of the consequences. The emotional and psychological pain of regret and never getting your smile back will haunt you for a lifetime.
9/ Smoking
As much as 23% of Michigan adults smoke. People smoke in an attempt to relax and escape their problems. If you are one of them, know that smoking does not, and will not, solve any of your problems.
Consequences:
Tobacco products such as cigarettes contain tar that can stain your teeth. Tobacco products also give you bad breath, which is embarrassing, to say the least. The worst effects will come sooner rather than later: gum disease, tooth decay, and eventually, oral cancer—which is a very painful and distasteful way to die.
If you're looking for affordable dentistry in Ann Arbor, MI, get in touch with us today for a free consultation.
