7 Things That Could Harm Your Smile

1. Vaping

Vaping contains nicotine, which reduces blood flow to the soft tissues of the mouth. This makes it harder for your mouth to fight against harmful bacteria. Nicotine can also cause your gums to recede. When e-cigarette vapors are burned, it causes a release of inflammatory proteins in your gum tissue, which can result in oral diseases.

2. Sports Drinks

Sports drinks are marketed as a healthy way to refuel after an intense workout, but they are often bad news for your teeth. The PH levels in these beverages are extremely acidic and will erode tooth enamel. Also, the high levels of sugar in these drinks will cause cavities and tooth decay.

3. Diabetes

It is important to see a dentist for regular check-ups when you have diabetes, because this disease is linked to periodontal disease. Diabetes makes the body more susceptible to infection, so you are more at risk for gum disease.

4. Teeth Grinding

If you are prone to grinding your teeth, your smile can be affected in several ways. Grinding can affect your jaw and even change the appearance of your face. Teeth grinding can harm tooth enamel, cause chipping, sensitivity and jaw pain.

5. Sugar

The bacteria in your mouth will feed on the sugar you eat, which produces an acid that attacks your tooth enamel. This process leads to tooth decay.

6. Dry Mouth

If you have a dry mouth, it is harder to maintain a healthy environment for your teeth. Saliva is important because it helps rinse out your mouth and neutralize the harmful acids that lead to tooth decay.

7. Not Flossing

If you skip this important step in your daily routine, you are putting your smile at risk in several ways. Flossing helps remove debris and plaque that that harms your smile. Flossing also helps with bad breath and prevents gum disease.

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If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, call Crossley Orthodontics... We are here to help! (214) 556-6868