Seven common mistakes that hurt your teeth

A boy brushing his teeth. You are conscious about your dental health, you brush and floss your teeth regularly, but still, the problems will not go away. PHOTO| FILE| NATION MEDIA GROUP 

In Summary

• Some people subject their teeth to jobs they should not do, such as uncapping bottle tops, untying knots, or ripping off a piece of cloth.
• These can weaken the teeth, break them or crack them.

By REBECCA MUTHONI
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You are conscious about your dental health, you brush and floss your teeth regularly, but still, the problems will not go away.

The truth is that you could probably have habits that consciously or unconsciously compromise your dental health. Doctor Johnson Wambugu, a dentist, talks about some harmful practices that can harm your teeth.

Your teeth are not openers

Some people subject their teeth to jobs they should not do, such as uncapping bottle tops, untying knots, or ripping off a piece of cloth. These can weaken the teeth, break them or crack them.

FEEDING BOTTLES

Most mothers feed their children using bottles, since it is more convenient. However, this increases the risk of the baby developing tooth decay, in this case a condition known as “baby bottle tooth decay”. The longer the sugar in milk or juice stays in the mouth, the higher the chances that it will work with bacteria in the mouth to destroy the tooth enamel, resulting into widespread decay. If you have to use a bottle to feed your child, let it be just water.

Constant snacking on sugary foodstuff

Sugary treats such as sweets and sodas can encourage tooth decay. The longer the sugar and acids from these products are in contact with the tooth enamel, the higher the chances of tooth decay.

CLENCHING OR GRINDING TEETH

This normally happens when one is sleeping. It can be genetic or due to stress. With time, this habit can wear teeth down. Also, grinding teeth places pressure on the jaws and teeth, consequently causing pain. If you have this problem, your dentist might recommend that you wear a mouth guard at night.

DRINKING TOO MUCH COFFEE

The acidity and dark colour of coffee can over time cause yellowing of teeth. The good news is that this discolouration can be cleaned off. If your teeth are dicoloured, talk to a dentist about the treatment method suitable for you.

BITING ON ICE CUBES

This habit may seem harmless because ice does not contain sugar, however, chewing on tough, frozen cubes can cause the teeth to chip off or even crack. With time, these cracks might grow larger and consequently cause tooth fracture.

THUMB/FINGER SUCKING

This a common habit among children. Children who continue to suck their thumbs or fingers after permanent teeth have started to grow risk developing misaligned teeth, which are not only attractive, but also make chewing and brushing the teeth difficult. Discourage thumb and finger sucking before your child develops a habit of it.

IGNORING MOUTH GUARD

Teeth can easily get knocked out or chipped during high impact sport. If you play rugby or other contact sports, it is important to always put on a mouth guard. A mouth guard is as essential as wearing other protective gadgets like helmets, since it helps cushion the jaw and teeth against hard blows.

PIERCING ON THE TONGUE/LIP

This may be fashionable, however, if you happen to bite down on the metal stud, it can easily crack your tooth. Lip piercing can also rub against the gum and damage it. Since the mouth shelters bacteria, piercings also increase the risk of developing sores and infections. If considering such piercings, discuss the possible risks with a dentist.