Although many dentists offer same-day emergency visits to handle urgent issues, it’s preferred to avoid them altogether. For example, brushing and flossing twice daily at home helps remove plaque and bacteria to prevent cavities and gum disease, but that’s not the only way to help protect your grin.
For instance, you can also help safeguard your smile by steering clear of certain items that can hurt your teeth or gums. With that in mind, continue reading to learn about 3 objects that dentists recommend keeping out of your mouth!
Item #1: Bottle Caps
You’re not alone if you’ve ever felt tempted to pry open a stubborn metal or plastic bottle cap with your teeth. But they’re not intended to be used as can, letter, mail, or package openers, and using them as tools in this capacity could potentially chip, crack, or break your enamel or cut your tender gum tissues, which can result in an infection.
Taking a few moments to locate a more appropriate instrument for the job at hand, whether it’s a pair of scissors, box cutter, or can opener, can therefore help prevent costly or complex repairs and restorations that are often required to address dental damage.
Item #2: Someone Else’s Toothbrush
If you’re spending the night at a friend’s or family member’s house and realize you forgot to bring your toothbrush, you might wonder if it’s safe to use theirs to scrub your teeth. But it’s best to avoid using someone else’s toothbrush, because oral issues, like cavities and gum disease, are caused by bacteria that can spread.
For instance, germs and plaque that collects in the bristles of a toothbrush can transfer to your mouth and cause similar tooth decay or periodontal problems that only worsen the longer they remain untreated. Thankfully, many stores, pharmacies, and even gas stations carry a selection of toothbrushes so it’s usually not too hard to find something suitable for temporary use.
Item #3: Your Fingernails
Other people’s toothbrushes aren’t the only places germs can gather; fingernails are also known for being breeding grounds for different bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The small space between your nail and fingertip can be home to hundreds of thousands of microbes which can be spread to other surfaces on contact, which can spread disease from one place to another.
Unfortunately, this includes in your mouth. If you nibble your fingernails when you’re anxious or stressed, you might introduce new germs into your system that make you sick. You could also put too much pressure on the temporomandibular joints anchoring your jaw to your skull, which can cause a sore, stiff, or locked jaw. As a result, most dentists encourage patients to quit bad habits, like biting their nails.
Although your dentist is happy to help address any urgent issues that occur, avoiding placing these items in your mouth can help you prevent an emergency visit in the first place!
Meet the Author
Dr. Russel O’Connell is passionate about improving patient’s lives by enhancing their dental health. He earned his dental degree from the University of New England College of Dental Medicine, and today, he works diligently to provide a comprehensive menu of services, including same-day emergency visits, to people of all ages. His caring approach is paired with advanced technology to deliver more accurate, comfortable outcomes intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (908) 975-1269.