Keeping Your Teeth Safe
Dental enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. However, teeth can still be chipped or cracked if they are subjected to heavy forces.
Unlike bones, which can repair after a break, once the enamel has been lost or damaged, it cannot grow back or repair itself.
What can you do to protect your teeth from being damaged?
Stop Using Your Teeth as Tools
We’ve probably all done it…used our teeth to pull a tag off of a newly purchased garment or to open a package or two. Unfortunately, it is possible to bite something with just the right force and at just the right angle to cause an irreversible chip or crack in the enamel.
Stop Habits Like Chewing Pens, Paper Clips or Fingernails
Chewing hard things like pens, paperclips, or even holding nails between your teeth; all these habits expose teeth to undue repetitive stresses and may cause cracks and chipping of teeth.
Protect Teeth From Sporting Injuries
A custom-made mouthguard offers the best possible protection to teeth during contact sports.
It is a good idea to get your child into the habit of wearing a mouthguard when skateboarding, rollerblading, or playing contact sports. This will help them become more responsible for their health and well-being and will give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing their teeth are being well taken care of.
Protect Teeth From Damage Caused by Clenching and Grinding
Many people grind their teeth while they sleep, often due to stress. If you wake up with a sore jaw, headache, neck soreness or aching teeth, you may indeed be a tooth grinder or clencher. Over time, tooth enamel can be worn away. Sometimes teeth and fillings can chip or crack under pressure.
The best step to take when you realise or suspect that you are grinding your teeth is to arrange a time to consult with Dr Teo. She will determine whether you are grinding and will be able to recommend ways in which your teeth can be protected from damage.
Keeping your teeth safe does not have to be difficult or complicated. Just following our simple suggestions will help you protect your teeth.