You want to make sure you do everything you can to keep your teeth in good condition. While this means regularly brushing and flossing, it also goes well beyond that. It also means making sure you quit doing those destructive habits that put your teeth at greater risk of being damaged. This article will clue you in on some of the many things you can be doing to damage your teeth without thinking.

Don't get mouth piercings

If you have been considering a mouth piercing, you should put it out of your mind. A mouth piercing has metal parts that click against your teeth. This constant clicking can lead to tooth fractures, and the piercing will eventually push down your gums, which will cause more of your tooth to be exposed than should be. There is also a good chance that you will bite down on the metal piece at some point, which can cause a break in one or more of your teeth.

Don't chew ice or hard candies

A lot of people have the habit of chewing on ice or eating hard candies. You may not realize just how much damage this can cause. Ice and hard candies can put a lot of stress on your teeth. Not only can this cause them to wear down faster than they should, but it can cause them to chip or even break.

Don't use your teeth as tools

If you find that you sometimes think of your teeth as a convenient tool you can count on to open packages and untie tight knots, you want to stop now. Using your teeth for purposes they are not intended for significantly increases your chances of dealing with broken, chipped or fractured teeth.

Don't eat sticky candy

If you have a sweet tooth, it's best if you stick to eating candies that aren't very sticky, as these increase the time sugar spends in contact with your teeth. Dark chocolate is a better choice; it is actually good for your teeth, since it contains antioxidants, tannins, polyphenols and flavonoids, all of which help to cut down on damaging bacteria, prevent it from sticking to your teeth and decrease your chances of developing cavities.

By following the advice here, you can help to decrease your chances of injuring your teeth or developing cavities or other dental issues. It's also important for you to make sure you go in to your dentist annually to have your regular exam and to get a cleaning. If you're looking for a dentist near you, visit Timothy D Calkins DDS.