Breaking bad oral habits: What dental hygienists should know
Oral habits like tongue chewing, mouth breathing and lip sucking may seem minor, but they can lead to long-term oral health problems if left unaddressed. Dental hygienists, who often encounter these common habits in the operatory, play a key role in identifying and helping patients manage these sometimes-overlooked behaviors, according to RDH Magazine.
Tongue chewing, often a subconscious response to stress or a result of an unbalanced bite, can cause chronic irritation. Hygienists should look for keratinized tissue or white lines along the sides of the tongue and ask patients, “Have you noticed any soreness or rough spots along your tongue lately?”
Mouth breathing, another common habit, is linked to more than dry mouth and bad breath. It may contribute to caries, inflammation and altered facial development, especially in children. Indicators include dry tissues, anterior gingival irritation and open lip posture.
Tonsil stones also frequently arise during hygiene visits. Though usually harmless, they can cause discomfort and persistent bad breath. Hygienists should explain what they are and suggest medical referrals if stones are large or painful.
Lip sucking, often beginning in childhood, can lead to lasting issues like misaligned teeth or speech problems. Signs include chapped lips and tissue trauma.
Dental hygienists are encouraged to use gentle, nonjudgmental language to raise these topics. Asking, “Can I ask: have you ever noticed yourself doing XYZ?” can prompt meaningful discussions, according to RDH Magazine. In some cases, awareness alone can help patients make lasting changes. For more complex issues, referrals to specialists may be appropriate.
Read more: RDH Magazine
The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.