Cavities are a persistent threat, and one that you should take seriously. Of course, the unpleasant truth is that decay is just one potential problem for our teeth. It is also possible for a physical injury to change your smile and oral health in unwelcome ways. Our Virginia Beach, VA dentist’s office is prepared to restore a tooth that is chipped, cracked, or damaged in another way. Of course, we certainly hope this is never something we have to do for you! If you want to make yourself less vulnerable to potential problems, make sure you are not putting your smile at needless risk.
1. Avoid Chewing On Hard Substances
Without thinking about it, many people will occasionally gnaw on the cap of a pen, or they may chew on an ice cube fished out of a glass. This seemingly simple habit can wear down your enamel, and may result in a chipped or cracked tooth! If you are guilty of these behaviors, make an effort to fully stop so that you are no longer causing needless wear and tear on your teeth.
2. Take Action If You Think You Have An Issue With Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding as a response to stress can be common, but it can be a serious issue if you often grind your teeth at night. The habit can change your smile by flattening and wearing down teeth, and it may lead to damages that require dental crowns! Stress can be responsible for this, but it can also be due to unresolved problems with TMJ disorder. If necessary, you can have your dentist provide you with a custom oral appliance to keep your teeth safe while you sleep. Stress management efforts at night, combined with diet changes, can help you control nightly grinding. Caffeine and alcohol consumption have both been linked to this problem.
3. Address A Problem With An Uneven Or Awkward Bite
If your bite if flawed because your teeth are poorly aligned, or because you have formed a habit of moving awkwardly, it can put excess pressure on certain teeth. That overuse can weaken them, which can result in their being damaged over time. While corrective work can help, it is sometimes beneficial to discuss orthodontic treatment to help your bite become more even.
Your Virginia Beach, VA Dentist Can Restore Injured Teeth!
At our Virginia Beach, VA dentist’s office, we are proud to provide our patients with modern restorations that can restore the health and appearance of a damaged tooth. With that said, we are also committed to helping our patients through preventive services that keep them safe from decay and injuries. To find out more about how we can help you, please call Absolute Dental Care in Virginia Beach, VA at (757) 428-7440.