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The worst things you’re doing to your teeth

Your teeth aren't only responsible for helping you eat, but also in displaying emotions and in speech. You only get one set of permanent teeth, and it's important to take care of them – after all, good oral health is linked to your overall health. And, according to a recent survey by ProNamel, eighty-seven percent of Canadians agree that taking care of their teeth is important to their overall health.

In recognition of Oral Health Month, Yahoo Canada Shine recently spoke with Dr. Amin Babul, a Toronto, ON-based dentist to get the low-down on some things you're doing wrong when it comes to caring for your teeth, and what you should be doing to keep those pearly whites in tip-top shape.

Babul says that when it comes to caring for their teeth, people often have some surprising bad habits including:

  • Swirling, swishing or holding acidic foods or drink (like pop) in their mouth;

  • Brushing immediately after eating or drinking. Babul says people should brush before eating acidic foods to protect their tooth enamel;

  • Frequently consuming acidic foods and drinks like fruit, fruit juices, salad dressing, or fizzy water with a squeeze of lemon;

  • Consuming acidic beverages over a prolonged period of time throughout the day.

"These daily exposures are increasing your exposure to acid wear, which weakens and gradually wears away at tooth enamel," says Babul.

Also see: What your mouth can tell you about your health

There are many ways you can take care of your teeth that are actually fairly simple.

"Try to reduce the amount of time that acids are in contact with your teeth by minimizing swirling, swishing or holding acidic foods or drinks in your mouth," says Babul. "And when drinking acidic beverages, use a straw."

He also says people should avoid brushing their teeth immediately after eating or drinking, and should be brushing with a soft bristled brush.

Also see: What you need to know about acid erosion

Another important component of properly caring for your teeth involves making sure you eat a balanced diet. Babul says people should follow a well-balanced, healthy diet, with a range of different foods and drink – keeping in mind the frequency of their consumption of acidic foods and beverages, the way they eat and drink, and how simple steps can reduce the risk of conditions such as acid wear.

And of course, brushing, flossing and seeing your dentist regularly all contribute to the health of your teeth and gums, so keep up with your oral health routine as well.

For more information on the potential health risk of using mouth wash, check out the video below.