There are a number of bad habits that most people practice on a daily basis for a soothing technique that can make them feel comfortable in various situations. From biting the nails to chewing on ice, many people are prone to performing acts that can be damaging to the teeth. For some, there are a few bad habits that can cause teeth to shift and move, making it important to drop the habit completely to protect your teeth’s alignment long-term.
Grace and Bowman Orthodontics – serving Fort Walton Beach and Niceville – encourages practicing good oral health habits. Certain things can cause distress to your teeth, causing them to shift and move – especially if these habits continue on for years. To schedule your appointment, contact Grace and Bowman Orthodontics today.
Thumb Sucking
The most common thumb suckers are those around the age of five and six, and for a habit that may seem innocent, it can wreak havoc on your teeth’s alignment for a mouth that needs braces. Thumb sucking actually begins in the womb as a soothing technique that can comfort small children and last for several years. The habit causes teeth to gradually shift and move, which can make them crooked or gapped after a few years.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding is a common habit that tends to take place while people sleep. Teeth grinding is often considered to be soothing, but can also wear down the teeth and lead them to shift if the habit occurs frequently.
Stress can also be one of the main triggers for teeth grinding and puts unnecessary pressure on molars and front teeth, often leading to fractures. Mouth guards are often provided from dental professionals to patients who grind their teeth to prevent the habit and reduce the effects at night.
Using Teeth as a Tool
From biting off tags to opening food packages, teeth are often used as a tool when needing to perform various tasks throughout the day. Although your teeth may get the job done, it can come at a cost. Using your teeth as scissors or pliers on a frequent basis will eventually cause the teeth to move and can even reverse dental work that has been performed.
Chewing on Pencils or Objects
A common form of concentrating or reducing stress is to chew on pens, pencils, and random objects that can seem appealing to place in the mouth. Although it may seem like a gentle act that isn’t dangerous, it can eventually cause the teeth to shift and crack due to prolonged pressure that is placed with objects that are not food. It’s important to find other habits that can help with concentration, which include tapping a pen or squeezing a stress ball while working.
