4 Bad Habits That Can Impact the Health of Your Mouth

Central Florida Periodontics is your source for gum disease treatment in Orlando. We’re passionate about preventing gum disease before it starts, so we’re always encouraging our patients to improve their oral care habits. Whether you already have gum disease or you’re simply looking to maintain a healthy mouth, these bad habits should be avoided. 

1. Sipping on Sodas Throughout the Day

Many people know that sipping on flavored sodas and colas throughout the day is bad for teeth due to their high sugar content. Fewer people realize that even sugar-free diet sodas are also harmful. The culprit in both of these drinks is the high acid content, which wears away tooth enamel over time. 

We don’t want to stop you from enjoying a soda, but try to finish it quickly. Afterward, rinse with a mouthwash to prevent acid from sitting on your teeth. This could be one of the simplest ways to avoid needing gum disease treatment in Orlando!

Sodas aren’t the only refreshments with high acidity: check out a few other foods and drinks to be mindful of, here. 

2. Brushing the Wrong Way

Many people treat brushing their teeth as a mindless task, one they’ve done more or less the same way throughout their lives. However, there’s actually a right way and a wrong way to approach this important daily habit.

One common mistake some people make is choosing a brush with hard bristles. You might think that harder bristles clean better, but the opposite is actually true: softer bristles are more effective at removing plaque, and choosing a toothbrush that’s too firm can actually wear down your tooth structure.

Furthermore, brushing at a slight angle to your gum line is the best way to remove plaque and bacteria that builds up just underneath it. 

If you’re looking for gum disease treatment in Orlando, schedule an appointment with our office – we’ll demonstrate some easy and effective brushing techniques.

3. Skipping the Floss

It’s not uncommon to find toothbrushes that advertise themselves as having flossing capabilities. However, there’s no substitute for taking the time to floss your teeth. Plaque and bacteria build up between teeth, inflaming gums and wearing down tooth enamel. There’s simply no better way to effectively remove these oral health dangers than by flossing daily.

4. Smoking & Other Tobacco Use

Just about everyone knows that smoking and tobacco use (even vaping!) can cause serious health problems. Some of those problems include oral health issues like yellowing teeth, receding gum lines, weakened teeth, gum disease, and even oral cancer. These are just a few of the reasons why we advise our patients to try to quit the use of cigarettes and other tobacco products. 

Stop your search for gum disease treatment in Orlando. Central Florida Periodontics is ready to help get your smile into its best shape!