Although it is important to not only brush and floss regularly, it is also important that you be aware of other ways your teeth can be harmed.
People are built to have strong teeth, and with regular care they can last a lifetime. However, your teeth do receive a lot of wear and tear. The daily grind of chewing, brushing, and grinding, along with accidental injuries, can take a toll.
Here is one of the biggest threats on your teeth, and what you can do to avoid it. Although teeth can sometimes chip or fracture when you bite down on something hard, this is more uncommon than you may believe.
What occurs most often, according to our Santa Monica Cosmetic Dentist, are that teeth are damaged as a result of accidents or sports injuries. When researchers surveyed athletes competing in the Pan American World Games recently, they found that almost half showed signs of fractures believed to have occurred over time during training or competing. Even sports that you may not expect receive a number of issues.
There are a number of steps you can take to prevent this. If you have fillings in your back molars, it’s wise to avoid biting down hard on foods such as bones, hard candies, and ice. Wear a mouth guard if you or the kids play sports that pose a risk of injury. A 2002 survey of college basketball players found that mouth guard wearers significantly reduced their risk of dental injuries. Simple mouth guards are available at most sporting goods stores. Your dentist can also make a custom-fitted mouth guard. Stay tuned for more from your Santa Monica cosmetic dentist.