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Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond brushing and flossing. Some daily habits could be causing damage to your teeth without you even realising it. At Evolve Dentistry, we want to help you protect your oral health by identifying these harmful habits and providing solutions to keep your teeth strong and healthy.

1. Grinding and Clenching Your Teeth

Why It’s Harmful

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can lead to enamel wear, jaw pain, and even fractures. Many people grind their teeth unconsciously, especially during sleep or stressful situations.

How to Fix It

• Use a custom-fitted mouthguard at night to protect your teeth.
• Practice stress management techniques like meditation or breathing exercises.
• Be mindful of jaw tension during the day and try to relax your muscles.

2. Using Your Teeth as Tools

Why It’s Harmful

Opening bottles, tearing packaging, or biting nails can put unnecessary stress on your teeth, leading to chips and fractures.

How to Fix It

• Use scissors or the appropriate tools instead of your teeth.
• Keep a nail file handy to avoid biting your nails.
• Be conscious of how you use your teeth to prevent accidental damage.

3. Consuming Too Many Sugary or Acidic Foods and Drinks

Why It’s Harmful

Frequent exposure to sugar and acid weakens tooth enamel, leading to cavities and sensitivity.

How to Fix It

• Limit sugary and acidic foods such as soda, citrus fruits, and sweets.
• Drink water after consuming acidic or sugary foods to help neutralise acids.
• Use a straw when drinking acidic beverages to reduce direct contact with teeth.

4. Brushing Too Hard or Using a Hard-Bristled Toothbrush

Why It’s Harmful

Brushing aggressively or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and irritate your gums, causing sensitivity and recession.

How to Fix It

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions.
• Don’t apply excessive pressure; let the toothbrush do the work.
• Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

5. Skipping Flossing

Why It’s Harmful

Brushing alone doesn’t remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

How to Fix It

• Make flossing a daily habit to clean hard-to-reach areas.
• Use floss picks or water flossers if traditional flossing is difficult.
• Floss before bedtime to ensure your teeth stay clean overnight.

Take Action for a Healthier Smile

Being aware of these habits and making small changes can have a big impact on your oral health. At Evolve Dentistry, we are here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If you have any concerns or need personalised advice, book an appointment with us today!

Take a look at our CQC report