As hard as this can be to believe, your lifestyle habits and overall health can have a detrimental impact on your dental health. At Family Dental Care, as your dentist in Lakeview, we want to inform all of our patients about what their choices are doing to their teeth and overall oral health.
Sugar
This may be obvious but sugar is a huge threat to your dental health. It causes plaque to develop which then combines with carbohydrates to cause acid buildup. Eventually, the acid will break down your tooth enamel which allows cavities to form. With proper brushing and flossing, you can lessen the effects of sugar.
Smoking
Smoking tobacco products can make gum disease get worse faster. Smokers are three to six times more likely to suffer from advanced gum disease than nonsmokers. Smoking also makes treatment much more difficult and not possible in some cases because it hinders healing in your mouth.
Oral Piercings
This one may surprise you but infections from oral piercings are common and can lead to cracked or chipped teeth. They can also lead to gum recession and if your gums recede too far, your teeth could come loose. Beyond damaging your gums and teeth, the wounds from oral piercing provide an opportunity for bacteria to enter the bloodstream and possibly travel to the heart.
As your dentist in Lakeview, it is our job to warn you of the potential havoc your choices are reeking on your mouth. Visit Family Dental Care for your next cleaning.