If you want the best possible smile, you’re going to have to cut some of these common bad habits. Continue reading to learn more about preserving the integrity of your teeth.

Drink Coffee and Tea Through a Straw

Coffee and tea are known for staining teeth. However, if you can’t start your day without a cup of joe in the morning, don’t be alarmed. Try to drink your beverages through a straw instead to lessen the effects.

Also, fruits like citrus can also stain the teeth, so eat these in moderation.

Teeth Grinding

People grind their teeth when they’re nervous, frustrated, or anxious. Some people even grind their teeth in their sleep. If you notice you’ve fallen victim to this bad habit, try to make a conscious effort to stop. Conduct check-in periods with yourself throughout the day. If you catch yourself clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth together, position your tongue in between your teeth.

However, if you’re grinding your teeth while you sleep, purchase a bite guard to protect those pearly whites. Teeth grinding can cause serious issues like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome, so you want to stop the habit dead in its tracks.

Skipping Your Brushing Sessions

You may feel tempted to skip a brushing session now and then. However, this is not something you want to spiral into. Brushing your teeth is one of the most effective ways to clean your mouth. Keep in mind that your mouth has 700 different strains of bacteria.

Not Replacing Your Toothbrush

You should replace your toothbrush every three to six months. An old toothbrush can accrue various kinds of germs and bacteria. These are not things you want in your mouth, so set a reminder on your phone, so you’ll never forget again.

Not Flossing

Flossing is just as important as brushing — it can help prevent gingivitis and tooth decay. Simply brushing isn’t going to cut it! Keep some in your bag or pocket to use after meals and always floss after you’ve brushed and also use mouthwash.

Not Brushing Your Tongue

If you’re brushing your teeth but not your tongue, this may be counterintuitive. A dirty tongue can lead to bad breath or a white-coated tongue.

For best results, use a tongue scraper.

Ignoring Dental Pain

Don’t brush these major signs under the rug. If you’re experiencing jaw or tooth pain, make an appointment with your orthodontist right away. If you don’t take action, the issue can worsen. Dental pain presents itself in different ways such as:

• Sharp throbbing pain in the cheek or jaw area
• Sensitivity to cold and hot foods
• Swelling of the gums

Also keep a lookout for bad breath, receding gums, and loose teeth.

Not Taking Your Clear Aligners Out When You Eat or Drink

For those individuals who wear Invisalign aligners, don’t get into the bad habit of leaving them in your mouth while you eat and drink. Additionally, you need to clean them often. Your aligners can collect all kinds of bacteria when not sanitized properly. Take them out while brushing and insert them into a cleaning solution. You may soak your tray in water and vinegar or a retainer cleaner.

Not Doing Your Research on a Proper Orthodontist

The relationship with your orthodontist is an important one, so make sure to do your research when looking for the right doctor in your area. They should make you feel comfortable and cared for. Contact our office today to get in touch with our qualified orthodontist who can do just that.