Summer can be a season of big fun, but it can also be a dangerous time for your smile. If you are already experiencing problems, restorative solutions from our Novi, MI dental office are always a great option. Still, it is our hope that you can prevent the need for restorative work by following a healthy at-home hygiene routine and protecting your teeth and gums at every turn. To that end, today, we want to show you 5 things that can damage your smile, so that you can be ready to do the right thing. Keep reading and then be sure to give us a call at 248-697-2487 to request your next preventive dentistry appointment with Dr. James C. Ross.

1. Drinking Sugary Soda Pops

Soft drink marketing has become ubiquitous and hard to resist. Plus, we can honestly say that enjoying a cold soda every now and then won’t put you at a significantly higher risk of any major dental problems. But consuming soda frequently, as in every day, will definitely put you at a greater risk for dental problems. Recent studies have found that those who consume three sodas a day or more have a 62 percent greater risk of cavities. You can immediately reduce your risk of tooth decay by eliminating soda from your summer menu. Plus, you’ll be less likely to require a professional teeth whitening solution if you are abstaining from such richly-colored beverages.

2. Not Brushing (Long Enough)

No matter how laid-back your summer feels, you should never skip brushing your teeth. In fact, it’s recommended by the American Dental Association that patients brush twice a day, for something like two minutes each time. Unfortunately, we are finding that few folks actually brush their teeth for the full two minutes. Oddly enough, most patients report that they brush harder rather than longer. The thing is that plaque and dangerous oral bacteria is soft and can be easily removed, given enough time to get to every corner of your mouth. So, the next time you brush, keep an eye on the clock.  

3. Grinding Your Teeth

Teeth grinding or and jaw clenching is a widespread problem that is usually done involuntary. Many patients who clench or grind their teeth do so at night and may not even realize that they are doing it. Regardless of your awareness level, these two habits are awful for your teeth and jaw. What’s more, grinding or clenching increases the risk of tooth fractures, breaks, and even jawbone issues. Patients who regularly clench or grind at night often wake up with a sore mouth or headache. Our office can assess your teeth and identify if you’re clenching or grinding your teeth, then take steps to remedy that situation for you.

4. Smoking And Other Tobacco Use

It has long been known that smoking cigarettes increases the risk of lung cancer and respiratory problems. But other forms of tobacco use are also hard on your teeth and gums. Plus, tobacco use is linked to oral cancers! Studies have found that people who smoke or use smokeless tobacco also have a higher risk of gum disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Save your smile by quitting now. We can recommend some excellent resources the next time you are here.

5. Missing Dental Appointments

Maintaining a great oral health routine at home will help you to reduce your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental problems. But it’s still imperative for you to visit the dentist every six months for professional-grade teeth cleanings and comprehensive exams. These preventive visits will help us monitor your dental health and stop any emerging problems early on, before they have a chance to escalate into serious (and more costly) issues. 

Call For Help!

We hope you have been inspired by today’s post. These are just a few things you can keep in mind so as to improve your oral health. We’re also ready when you are to meet in-person and discuss your oral health goals and needs for summer and beyond. All you have to do now is call our Novi, MI dental office at 248-697-2487 or contact us online to request a preventive dentistry appointment.