Habits That Damage the Teeth

We will take a detailed look at which habits damage the teeth. Before that, let’s mention a few statistics and research findings that will give you an idea of how much importance is given to oral and dental health in Türkiye. Statistics show that among individuals aged 35–44, the rate of people with missing teeth, decayed teeth or dental fillings is around 11%. This rate rises to 25% among individuals aged 65–74.

At this point, a frequently asked question is how many people both brush their teeth regularly and go for routine dental check-ups. We can easily say that this number is very low. Unfortunately, in our country, the number of people with tooth and gum problems is quite high, and the majority of them neglect their oral and dental health and do not attend routine dental examinations. Therefore, simply staying away from habits that damage the teeth is not enough to protect your oral and dental health. Teeth must also be brushed regularly, dental floss should be used, and routine dental check-ups should never be neglected.

So, which habits harm dental health? Here are the answers…

Drinking Coffee, Tea And Using Tobacco Products

It is well known that coffee and tea consumption and the use of tobacco products are very common in Türkiye. However, these habits are among the leading behaviors that damage the teeth. Firstly, coffee and tea cause significant yellowing and discoloration of the teeth. The same is true for tobacco use. These habits affect not only the teeth but also the gums in a negative way. Many gum diseases are caused by tobacco use or excessive consumption of coffee and tea.

Particular attention should be drawn to the use of tobacco products. When we look at the causes of lip, tongue and oral cancers, tobacco use stands out as the most common factor. In short, tobacco products should not be considered only as habits that harm teeth cosmetically. It must not be forgotten that they can also lead to serious conditions such as cancer. Staying away from tobacco and limiting coffee and tea consumption as much as possible are extremely important to protect oral and dental health.

Teeth Grinding

One of the most common problems in the general population is teeth grinding or clenching, and this is also a habit that harms both the teeth and the gums. Usually, this habit occurs during sleep. Waking up in the morning with tooth or jaw pain and feeling dryness in the mouth are some of the signs of this problem, which can have different underlying causes. We can say that it is especially more common in people who are under excessive stress. Grinding or clenching the teeth at night significantly affects dental health in a negative way.

Above all, this habit causes wear on the teeth. Over time, this wear leads to tooth decay. Additionally, gum recession can develop, and other gum diseases may also occur. For this reason, the underlying problem, known as bruxism, needs to be treated regardless of its cause. Apart from stress, anxiety, certain mental health conditions, anger management problems or some neurological disorders can also trigger this condition. Whatever the underlying cause, the problem must be addressed to protect teeth and gums. Otherwise, various problems affecting the teeth and gums will develop in a short time.

Eating Too Many Snacks

The frequent consumption of packaged foods is already not recommended by health professionals. These products, commonly called “snacks,” do not only negatively affect body systems. This habit also harms oral and dental health. Therefore, consuming large amounts of packaged snack foods is among the habits that damage the teeth. Packaged snacks generally contain high levels of fat, sugar and salt. Excessive consumption of such snacks means that the body is exposed to excessive amounts of fat, sugar and salt. Over time, this leads to problems such as tooth decay and yellowing of the teeth.

We can clearly say that people who frequently consume sugary snacks often face tooth decay problems after a short while. It is absolutely essential to limit the consumption of packaged snacks. After eating them, teeth should be brushed and dental floss should be used to clean between the teeth. Preventing snack-related damage to the teeth is only possible in this way. It is also important not to neglect regular oral and dental check-ups.

Consuming Too Many Acidic, Sugary Foods And Fruit Juices

Excessive consumption of acidic and sugary foods is one of the fundamental causes of numerous health problems and is also among the habits that damage the teeth. The same applies to excessive fruit juice intake. Especially when energy drinks or carbonated beverages are consumed, the teeth are practically exposed to an acid attack. If oral and dental cleaning is not performed shortly afterwards, this acid attack triggers the onset of tooth decay.

Fruit juices contain vitamins that are highly beneficial for the body. However, ready-made, packaged fruit juices also contain high levels of additives, which can be harmful to the teeth. Gums can also be adversely affected by the excessive consumption of packaged fruit juices. For this reason, it is preferable to drink freshly squeezed, non-packaged fruit juices and to clean the teeth and mouth promptly afterwards.

Wearing Piercings On The Lips, Tongue Or Teeth

Tongue, tooth or lip piercings generally come into contact with the teeth. This is one of the factors that cause wear or fractures in the teeth. Lip piercings can also damage the teeth and are even harmful for the gums. Additionally, these accessories can contribute to bacterial growth in the mouth. Because the areas around piercings cannot be effectively cleaned, these accessories become another reason why teeth and gums can be harmed.

Brushing The Teeth Incorrectly

Of course, brushing the teeth incorrectly is also among the habits that damage the teeth. Just as brushing correctly is very beneficial, improper brushing can be equally harmful. Brushing your teeth three times a day is sufficient. Brushing six or seven times a day, or applying excessive force while brushing, are harmful habits. You should also pay attention to brushing time and aim for about two minutes. Brushing for 10 minutes or longer may damage both the teeth and gums. If you have any questions about this topic, you can write them in the comments section.