1. Ignoring tooth or gum problems - Your dentist is professionally trained to help you with all your oral problems. So instead of waiting for a problem to occur , regularly visit your dentist 3-6 monthly so that any problems can be detected at an early stage .
2. Using teeth as tools - Stop using your teeth to tear open a bag of potato chips, uncap a bottle of nail polish, pull out a watch stem, straighten a bent fork tine, or rip a price tag off a piece of clothing. This can be hard on your teeth, traumatizing them or causing the edge of a weakened tooth to chip off or even fracture.
3. Excessive intake of carbonated drinks - Carbonated drinks contain acids which destroys the enamel surface and hence increasing tooth sensitivity. use a straw to consume this drinks as it minimises the contact of the acid with the tooth surface.
4. Using a hard bristled toothbrush - They abrade the tooth surface , destroying the enamel making the tooth weaker and more prone to sensitivity.
5. Not changing your toothbrush regularly - A 3 monthy change of a toothbrush is recommended irrespective of its flowering .
6. Irregular brushing habits - Brushing a minimum of twice a day will help in keeping your gums and teeth healthy.
7. Ignoring halitosis - Having halitosis/ bad breath is an indication that there is an increase in plaque ( deposits) accumulation and needs an immediate professional cleaning.
8. Ignoring the problems in milk teeth - Milk teeth act as a foundation for your child's permanent teeth and ignoring their problems will lead to early and increased decay in the permanent teeth.
9. Avoid getting your tooth removed - If your dentist suggests that your tooth can be saved , please opt for that option as nothing can replace your natural teeth.
10. Playing sports without a mouthguard- Contact sports such as hockey, baseball can cause some serious injuries to the teeth, hence wearing a mouthguard to protect them is recommended.