There’s almost nothing more genuine and lovely in this world than an authentic smile. That’s not a smile that looks perfectly lit and posed for a fashion magazine, but the one given to you when someone belly laughs or is having a wonderful time. There’s a lovely vulnerability about it that shows you someone’s real beauty, not the kind of beauty that needs to be pre-arranged.
Now, you don’t need a perfect set of teeth to share this wonderful smile with someone you appreciate, but it’s true that caring for our dental environment is important, and just as essential to maintain as our wider physical health.
But are you possibly damaging your natural teeth without you realizing it? Of course, clear teeth aligners and other careful treatments should also be combined with a healthy habitual cycle, and if anything denigrates that, the purpose is somewhat defeated. In this post then, we intend to help you consider three habits that may be damaging your teeth without you realizing it!
Lemon/Lime Water
Adding lemon or lime slices to water is often seen as a healthy and refreshing habit, and in many ways, it is. These fruits are full of vitamins and can make staying hydrated more enjoyable too. However, the acidity of citrus fruits can take a toll on your teeth if you drink it every single day. The enamel, which is the outer protective layer, can erode over time when exposed to acidic drinks no matter your general levels of dental health. This can make your teeth more sensitive and vulnerable to decay. In some cases, there’s a gentle recommendation to avoid this if you can. But if you enjoy citrus water, you don’t need to give it up completely. Instead, you could just try drinking it through a straw to limit contact with your teeth. Sorted!
Sweeteners
It’s easy to think that sugar-free products or those containing artificial sweeteners are entirely safe for your teeth. After all, they don’t cause cavities in the same way sugar does, so they are a little better. But some sugar substitutes, particularly in gum or candies, can still pose a risk if they’re acidic. Sorbitol is pretty frequently used in sugar-free products, are generally safer for dental health, but it’s still worth checking the ingredient list.
Sleep Grinding
Many people grind their teeth at night without even realizing it, and this habit can be incredibly damaging over time and wear away at your teeth. Dentists can see through this and may recommend a nightguard to prevent it. The official name for this behavior is bruxism, and it can wear down your enamel, cause cracks or chips that are painful to experience and deal with, and even lead to jaw pain and headaches or other ENT issues. Stress is a common cause of this, but it can also happen due to misaligned teeth or just bad habits grown over time. If you’re at all concerned, be sure to speak to a professional.
With this advice, we hop you can more easily avoid damaging your teeth without even realizing it!
Image: Pexels – CC0 License
