Think about all the things your fingers touch throughout the day. Chances are your hands are covered in germs and bacteria from shaking hands with others, handling food, covering your mouth when you sneeze, and touching door knobs. Even if you wash your hands regularly, germs and bacteria become trapped beneath your fingernails. If you bite or chew your fingernails, you are transferring bacteria from your hands to your mouth.
Bruxism is a common habit. Most people grind their teeth without realizing it—especially during sleep. Habitual teeth grinding is the result of stress, tension, and malocclusions. Over time, bruxism leads to tooth wear and microscopic cracks in tooth enamel. In severe cases, patients may actually fracture their teeth.
Soda and sports drinks contain sugar and acid. This destructive combination leads to tooth decay. Strong acid destroys tooth enamel over time and sugar is a food source for streptococci mutans—an aggressive bacterium that contributes to dental caries.
We encourage patients to break bad habits and visit our Pella dentist office regularly for routine cleanings and checkups.
Dr. Jeffrey Allen provides comfortable dental care to patients of all ages. Call (641) 628-1121 today to schedule a checkup and cleaning, cosmetic consultation, or second-opinion visit. We are located on the west side of the historic town square in Pella. IA. Please see the map for directions.
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