Seven Ways You Can Break Your Teeth And How To Protect Them In Michigan

Seven Ways You Can Break Your Teeth And How To Protect Them In Michigan

Your teeth are among the most important structures in your body. They are responsible for tasks such as biting, chewing, and speaking.

Unfortunately, there are many ways in which you can accidentally break your teeth. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and long-term disability.

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry we want you to be careful with your teeth. Let’s discuss the top seven ways you can break your teeth, so you know what to watch for and when to be the most careful with your oral health in mind.

1. Biting on Hard Objects

Many people have a habit of biting on hard objects, such as ice, pens, or pencils. While this may seem harmless, it can actually cause significant damage to your teeth. Biting on hard objects can cause your teeth to crack, chip, or even break. To avoid this, try to break the habit of biting on hard objects and stick to chewing on food.

2. Using Your Teeth as Tools

Using your teeth as tools is a common way people break their teeth. For example, using your teeth to open a bottle, tear open a package, or even cutting a piece of tape for that birthday gift can cause damage to your teeth. Always use the appropriate tools for these tasks and avoid using your teeth.

3. Grinding Your Teeth

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that can cause significant damage to your teeth. Grinding your teeth can cause your teeth to become worn down, cracked, or broken. If you grind your teeth, talk to your Michigan dentist at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry about getting a mouthguard to protect your teeth.

4. Eating Sticky or Hard Foods

Eating sticky or hard foods such as a chewy caramel or piece of hard candy can cause your teeth to crack or break. If you regularly eat these types of foods, try to chew them on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid putting too much pressure on one tooth. Avoid biting those hard candies, too. They taste great, but they can cause a lot of damage.

5.Playing Contact Sports

Playing contact sports such as football or hockey can increase your risk of breaking a tooth. Broken teeth can occur from personal contact, contact with the ground, or contact with equipment. Even soft equipment such as an inflated ball can cause damage. Make sure to wear a mouthguard while playing to protect your teeth from impact.

6. Ignoring Dental Problems

Ignoring dental problems such as cavities or gum disease can lead to weakened teeth. Weak teeth are more prone to breaking. Make sure to visit your Michigan dentist at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly to keep an eye on your oral health and to address any dental issues before they become a problem.

7. Getting Into Accidents

Finally, accidents can happen and they can often result in broken teeth. Whether it’s a car accident, a fall, or running into a bar at the playground, make sure to seek dental care as soon as possible if your teeth are damaged. Quick reactions to damage can help ensure the best chances of saving a tooth and limiting damage.

There are many ways in which you can accidentally break your teeth. We encourage you to be aware of these risks and take steps to avoid accidents.

Remember to visit your dentist at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly for checkups and address any dental issues promptly to keep your teeth healthy and strong.

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

Continuing Education in Washington, DC

Last week Dr. Stewart, Kay, Deb, Barb, Carol and Cathy attended the annual meeting of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry in Washington, DC. As always, this meeting was a stimulating learning opportunity. We took a two-day class in Digital Smile Design, as well as classes on Lasers and Hygiene, the CSI of the Mouth, and keeping up with the social media. Our heads are spinning as we process all of this information and make plans to incorporate the best of what we learned into our practice.

Feel free to ask us about our classes; we love to share our learning!

Our hygiene team attends a seminar on teen health issues

Dr. Stewart’s hygiene team recently attended a on-day seminar, “Teenagers–What Their Mouths Are Telling You But They’re Not: Practical Information on Teen Health Issues,” presented by Janette Delinger, RDH, BSDH.

This seminar contained up-to-date information on what is going on in the daily lives of our teens; from what they are saying to dietary concerns and dangerous social activities they are engaging in. Topics that were discussed included eating disorders, inhalants (“huff”), tobacco use, binge drinking, methamphetamine, HPV, oral piercings, abusive behavior, recommended immunizations and overall health and oral hygiene challenges. We will be highlighting some of these topics in upcoming newsletters, but we feel parents may want to get their hands on some of this information now.

Here are some excellent websites for parents to check out:

Dr. Stewart Attends AACD Meeting

In May I attended my 23rd meeting of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry where I took 15 hours of continuing education. I always come away from these meetings excited about what is new in dentistry, what we can do to help our patients, and the direction the profession is headed. I am more passionate and excited about dentistry and proud of the profession today than I was when I graduated.

My classes were in 1) Dental Adhesives, 2) Veneers, 3) Orthodontics, 4) Implants and 5) Sleep Apnea. My goal has always been, and continues to be, to stay current with dental materials, methods and technology. I’m already enrolled in, and looking forward to, the AACD meeting in May 2012!

Dr. Bruce Stewart