Many people don’t give their teeth a second thought other than their daily habits of flossing and brushing. But it’s imperative that you think more about the health of your teeth that goes beyond cleaning maintenance. Keeping them from injurious situations is another necessity. An endodontist focuses on diagnosing tooth pain, performing root canal treatments and implementing other procedures relating to the interior of the tooth.
At the office of Linda Ricks, DDS, MS, PC, our skilled professionals are experts at diagnosing dental issues as well as providing the treatment needed to maintain excellent oral health. Your care and comfort are our priorities, and we will take as much time as you need to address your every concern and explain your options in care.
Take a look at some of these habits and practices that do your teeth no favors and could send you to an endodontist.
Playing sports without a mouth guard. Don’t do it! Your maw is just as vulnerable to damage as the rest of your body. One elbow, baseball or lacrosse stick to your mouth can spell dental disaster. Buy one at a store or have a dental professional craft one specifically for you.
Oral piercings. You may think it’s cool to have a stud in your tongue, lip or cheek, but your teeth and gums wouldn’t agree. Biting on the metal adornment can easily crack a tooth; the metal can rub against your gums and lead to gum disease; and all oral piercings can get infected.
Using your teeth to open things. Taking the time to find and use a bottle opener or pair of scissors to access those beverages or the contents in plastic packaging won’t make your teeth crack or chip.
Chomping on pens and pencils. It can help you focus on your professional or school work, but you’ll be wrecking your teeth—not to mention innocent writing instruments—in the process. Sugarless gum is a better option.
Chewing on ice. The mere thought is cringe-worthy. Yes, ice is natural, sugar-free and hydrating, but it can also cause chips and fractures. Again, satiate your oral fixation with sugarless gum.
Binging and purging. People who suffer from bulimia nervosa eat and then force themselves to throw it all up. Vomit contains strong stomach acids that can erode teeth. In addition to corroding your teeth, bulimia can lead to a variety of other serious health problems. Seek medical help for this dangerous eating disorder.
Linda Ricks, DDS, MS, PC’s friendly, highly trained team is eager to help you feel comfortable and relaxed while receiving the very best endodontic care. For more information about our practice and how we can help you, please don’t hesitate to call us to schedule an appointment.
By Linda Ricks, DDS, MS, PC
July 27, 2022