As you go through your day-to-day life, you may not consider parts of your body that are always there. For example, you may regularly think of how to maximize your time at work, but you don’t think about your bone structure. Naturally, if it isn’t bothering you, it doesn’t become necessary. How often do you think of your teeth? What is their purpose? More importantly, what should you not use them for?
What Teeth Are Made For
We could make an endless list of things you shouldn’t do with your teeth. However, here are some things that your teeth are naturally designed to do.
Primarily, we think of teeth as tools to help us eat. In fact, our teeth complete one of the first stages of digestion. Teeth break apart food and turn it into smaller pieces. This enables us to swallow our food safely. Additionally, while we chew our food, saliva helps break the food down, beginning digestion.
You may not think about how important teeth are for speaking. While you talk, your tongue hits certain areas of your mouth and teeth. This allows you to make specific sounds. If you are missing teeth or have a bite problem, it can affect your ability to speak without issues.
What They Are Not Made For
We are all guilty of mistreating our teeth from time to time. However, you may need to consider everyday situations that you should avoid.
Holding Things In Your Mouth
Sometimes, we need another hand. If our hands are full, we want to utilize our pockets, our arms, and even other parts of our bodies. Rather than putting something down, we may choose to put an object in our mouths. For example, imagine you have taken your dog for a walk and picked up your mail and a new package. Instead of putting your keys in your pocket and putting your box down, you use your mouth.
When you put your keys in your mouth, you risk chipping or fracturing your teeth. Hard metals shouldn’t be in your mouth unless it is a dental appliance. Although enamel is the hardest substance in your body, it can still chip or break, causing damage to your teeth. Additionally, keys have sharp, harsh edges that can slice or cut your gums. It would help if you also thought of the germs that live on the surfaces of your keys. Putting your keys in your mouth could make you sick.
Your keys are not the only things you shouldn’t hold in your mouth. Wallets, dog leashes, pens, and cell phones are some of the many things you shouldn’t have in your mouth. In addition, many things can damage your teeth or gums.
Opening Packages
If there aren’t any scissors nearby, it can be tempting to open a plastic package with your teeth. With thick plastic packaging, you risk chipping or breaking your teeth. Also, if the plastic slips, it could cut your gums, which may need medical treatment. Significant cuts in your mouth increase your risk of developing an infection.