At Cranford Smiles, we understand the importance of maintaining optimal oral health. However, certain habits can unknowingly harm your teeth and gums. Here are six common habits to be mindful of, along with tips on how to break them.

1. Nail Biting: Cranford Smiles Insights Nail biting isn’t just a bad habit; it can also impact your dental health. The constant pressure from nail biting can chip your teeth, damage your gums, and even lead to jaw problems. To break this habit, consider wearing a mouthguard or using therapy techniques to reduce stress.
2. Brushing Too Hard: Protect Your Teeth with Proper Brushing Techniques While brushing your teeth is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene, brushing too hard can be harmful. Aggressive brushing can damage tooth enamel and irritate your gums, leading to issues like gum recession. Instead, use a soft toothbrush and gentle pressure to clean your teeth effectively.
3. Grinding and Clenching: Tips for Managing Bruxism Grinding or clenching your teeth, also known as bruxism, can cause dental problems such as chipped teeth and muscle pain. Practicing relaxation techniques and wearing a mouthguard at night can help alleviate these issues. Consult with our Cranford Smiles for personalized recommendations.
4. Chewing Ice Cubes: Protect Your Teeth from Cracks Although chewing on ice cubes may seem harmless, it can actually damage your tooth enamel. The hard texture of ice can cause teeth to chip or crack. To avoid this risk, opt for beverages without ice or use a straw when drinking cold drinks.
5. Constant Snacking: Maintain a Balanced Diet for Dental Health Frequent snacking, especially on sugary foods and drinks, can increase your risk of developing cavities. Instead of snacking throughout the day, focus on eating balanced meals to keep you feeling full longer. Additionally, rinse your mouth with water after consuming sugary snacks to help minimize the impact on your teeth.
6. Using Your Teeth as a Tool: Preserve Your Smile Using your teeth to open bottles or hold objects can result in chipped or broken teeth, as well as jaw injuries. Avoid using your teeth for tasks other than eating to prevent potential dental complications. Keep scissors handy for tasks that require cutting, and protect your smile.

Schedule your next dental appointment with Cranford Smiles and prioritize your oral health by breaking these harmful habits and maintaining regular dental check-ups. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with our experienced team at Cranford Smiles. Your smile deserves the best care possible!