Most people dread visiting the dentist due to the high expenses and exposure to sharp medical tools often used at the dentistry. They prefer to give a hundred and one excuses as to why they are better off enduring than going through a supposedly “painful experience” at the dentist. In spite of that, unhealthy dental care ticks red on their lists.
Notably, out of 10 adults who face oral care issues, 9 have them as a result of unhealthy dental habits. Per doctors’ advice, certain habits are to be avoided if you wish to stay away from frequent dentistry visits. The list of don’ts is unending, with people falling short in at least two areas. A very common yet unsafe habit is opening bottled drinks with our teeth.
After trying it the first and second time and getting away ‘safely’ with it, most people tend to normalize opening bottles with their teeth as it is a faster method compared to rummaging through the kitchen drawer for a bottle opener.
Well, not everyone gets lucky. This habit damages the teeth. Inasmuch as it can be the first option, it can also cause the chipping, cracking or fracturing of teeth. Evidently, a chipped or cracked tooth poses a lot of risks since there’s an entry for germs. The tooth is likely to decay and this process can be very painful, especially when it gets to the pulp. Once it gets to the pulp, extraction of the tooth or a root canal treatment is needed.
The tooth also gets extremely sensitive, a condition also known as dentin hypersensitivity. A part of the tooth is exposed, so it grows extremely sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages, sweet foods and even, cold air. This means you’ll be missing out on all your favourites because of a “conscious mistake”.
Just like addictions are cured with replacements, openers should be used at all times when there’s a need to open a bottle. This, and many other bad dental habits, should be avoided. Keep a healthy oral routine and visit the dentist at least twice a year to establish what works for you.
Photo Credit: Pepsodent