Habits That Can Cause Dental Erosion
20 Jun 2022
Dental erosion is a natural occurrence, but its onset can be accelerated by a person’s lifestyle. If you’re guilty of any of the following habits, you should consider setting an appointment for teeth cleaning in Miami. Preventive treatment can slow down teeth weakening and improve oral health.
Eating Foods That Are Acidic or Sugary
Food is the primary culprit in dental erosion. Food items with high sugar or acid content leave behind plaque, a thin film that coats the enamel and attracts opportunistic bacteria. These microorganisms slowly attack the tooth’s outer shell, which loses layer after layer over time.
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol affects oral health in many ways. Some alcoholic drinks leave compounds that stain teeth. They also deposit sugar and acid on the teeth, which can cause tooth decay. Lastly, binge drinking induces vomiting, regurgitating stomach acids potent enough to corrode the teeth.
Aside from producing plaque, inhaling chemicals from tobacco products also dehydrates the mouth. A dry mouth has little to no saliva that can help in balancing oral bacteria levels. This puts the smoker at risk for tooth and gum diseases that require periodontal treatment.
Bruxism
Bruxism is the habit of forcibly grinding the teeth against each other. Several people develop this habit unconsciously. Over time, grinding can wear down the enamel and weaken the teeth. Combined with tooth decay, this could lead to gingivitis or periodontitis.
This mannerism is usually a result of dental malocclusion. Misaligned teeth cause bite problems that force people to bite too hard during eating and sleeping. Teeth grinding can also be a symptom of sleep apnea. In this condition, a person ceases breathing during sleep due to a shrunken airway.
Regular Teeth Cleaning in Miami is Key
Frequently brushing and flossing teeth can tremendously help keep dental erosion at bay. You can enhance proper oral hygiene’s effects by regularly checking in with your dentist for a cleaning. Contact us now and set an appointment for the procedure.