What’s there to think about when it comes to biting food, chewing through your meals, brushing, and more? Do these really have anything in common? As a matter of fact, though you may not think of them as connected details (and you certainly never thought they might require any extra attention), they can all relate to either protecting your smile health or causing it some problems. Fortunately, when you begin to gain a clearer picture of how your habits influence your teeth and jaw joints, you’ll have a much easier time safeguarding all of those oral tissues!

When You Take Very Big Bites

One of the things our team suggests when it comes to your eating habits is taking smaller bites if you tend to take very large ones! Remember that your teeth are only so strong and that pressing your jaws apart too far (too frequently) and asking them to break through tough food can be traumatizing. You don’t want to force your jaw joints (your TMJs) to do too much work or to stretch beyond their comfort zone. Otherwise, you may cause damage or may encourage a problem called TMJ disorder to develop. Take smaller bites and you’ll be good to go.

When You Eat Extremely Hard Food

Let’s talk about hard foods. You might not take a big bite but what you’re eating is very difficult to break apart with your teeth. In this instance, you’re in a similar boat as with taking bites that are massive. Remember that hard foods can lead to the following: You may chip your teeth or even break/crack your teeth when you bite into something that’s far too hard. If you’re asking your jaw joints to break down something that’s very hard, you may again be straining them. Keep your smile health safe by finding foods that create less resistance.

When Your Brush Is Far Too Big

Believe it or not, if you use a brush that’s just too huge for your mouth, you’ll be forcing your jaws open too wide (and for two minutes!). This can encourage smile health issues like TMJ disorder, so use a brush that fits. Simple as that.

Gather Up Beneficial Details That Keep Teeth And Jaws Safe

When you visit our team for your preventive care or any other treatment, remember that we are are prepared to provide you with the information and guidance you need for any aspect of your smile care! Just ask. Ready for your checkup in Springfield, OH? Schedule your appointment with North Spring Dental today by calling 937.399.3800.