At Pediatric Dental Specialists, we know just how important it is to keep your teeth healthy and in tip top shape. There are lots of things that affect your teeth and you may have questions that you forget to ask your dentist. So we had Dr. Ana Planells explain some commonly wondered about teeth concepts. Got more questions? Give us a call at Pediatric Dental Specialists. We'd love to discuss your teeth with you. Can fingernail biting cause damage to my teeth? What about lip biting or biting the ends of pencils?
Fingernail biting, lip biting or biting the ends of pencils can all have harmful effects on the teeth. Nail biting/pencil biting can cause wear of the teeth and lead to chipping and cracking of the enamel. Lip biting can cause damage to the lips as well as move the teeth resulting in a change of the bite.
It is said that the changing seasons can have an effect on your body and joints. Can the seasons changing also have an effect on the way the mouth feels?
The changing seasons can cause individuals to suffer from seasonal allergies. A side effect of the seasonal allergies may be an increase in mouth breathing. Mouth breathing can result in a drying of the gums and cause the mouth to feel “dry”. During these times it is important to drink plenty of water to keep the mouth moist.
5. Is sugar-free gum good for my teeth, or can it still cause cavities?
Research has shown that sugar-free gum can decrease the incidence of cavities. Chewing sugar-free gum increases the saliva flow which acts to: neutralizes plaque acids, and helps clear the food resulting in fewer cavities.
Please remember that chewing gum is not recommended for very small children. The American Gum Association states “There are no specific guidelines on when a child can start chewing gum -- each child's development is unique and variable. Ultimately, the parent or custodian is responsible for deciding at what age, and under what conditions, their children can consume any foodstuff or candy, including chewing gum, and to ensure that they are aware of and understand any potential choking hazards.
The main point to consider is whether the child knows the concept of chewing without swallowing and do they have a general understanding of the risks and consequences of choking.
6. Is a soft toothbrush or a medium toothbrush better for my teeth and gums?
Brushing your teeth and gums twice a day is recommended as part of a daily oral hygiene regimen. In order to avoid abrasion of the gums it is recommend that you always use a soft toothbrush.
Please visit the American Dental Association website to see an animation on proper brushing techniques.
9. If I play sports and use a mouthguard can constantly biting down on the hard rubber eventually cause my teeth to shift and become crooked?
A mouthguard should be worn during all sports and activities where injury to the mouth is likely in order to protect the mouth and teeth and jaws from injury. A mouthguard is made from a flexible piece of plastic material. Constantly biting down on the mouthguard is unlikely to cause teeth to shift and become crooked. A custom made mouthguard is made with an imprint of one’s own teeth and is not designed to put pressure on the teeth to shift them.
For more information on mouthguards visit the American Dental Association.
10. If my wisdom teeth came in straight, do I still need to get them removed?
If your wisdom teeth came in straight you should consult with your dentist to see if they need not be removed. Your dentist will evaluate their shape/form, the health of your gums surrounding these teeth as well as your bite to make that determination.
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