Do you want to avoid tooth decay, gum disease, and other common oral health problems? If so, don’t turn to content creators on Instagram, TikTok, and other social media platforms – talk to your dental team! As experts on all things teeth and gums, they can provide you with tips and tricks with your specific dental history and needs in mind. Until then, you can read on to learn five things your dentist never puts in their mouth.
1. Whole Lemons
According to Healthline, lemon juice has a pH level between 2 and 3, which makes it upwards of 100,000 times more acidic than water. Since acidic foods like this can erode your enamel, leaving you more vulnerable to tooth decay, it’s important that you don’t bite directly into this fruit. Instead, dilute it with water so you can enjoy the taste without damaging your teeth!
2. Car Keys
Be honest… Have you ever put your car keys in your mouth while rummaging through your purse or holding everything else you have to carry? Although this might seem convenient in the moment, it can quickly lead to a serious dental injury, like a fractured tooth. Plus, there are countless germs and bacteria on the surface, which you don’t want to introduce to your mouth or your digestive tract.
3. Cigarettes
It’s no secret that cigarettes negatively impact your overall health, but did you know that they can damage your teeth and gums too? It’s true! In fact, patients who smoke can develop oral cancer, experience delayed healing, and lose teeth. That’s why it’s so important to refrain from using cigars, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and the like.
4. Hard Candies
Although sugary treats can be enjoyed in moderation, hard candies should be avoided entirely. That’s because the crunchy consistency can damage your teeth if you bite into it too soon. Additionally, sucking on it until it dissolves in your mouth results in continuous exposure to sugar. Simply put, it’s best to steer clear of candies that are hard – it will decrease your chances of sustaining a dental injury significantly.
5. Other People’s Toothbrushes
If you don’t have your toothbrush with you, you might be tempted to use someone else’s. Don’t! The bristles are covered in bacteria, plaque, and food particles that have been in their mouth, which you don’t want to use to “clean” yours. The best thing to do is purchase one, even if this approach is a bit more inconvenient.
About the Practice
As your dental team, each and every one of us at Exceptional Dentistry and Sedation Center want to do everything we can to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile both now and decades from now. That starts with providing essential preventive care and extends to sharing common mistakes that are often made between visits. If you have a question for our team about your oral health – whether it’s regarding your next dental checkup or your at-home oral hygiene regimen – don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via our website or by phone at (352) 332-6725.
