Dentists spend their days helping people repair and protect their smiles, so it’s no surprise they’re especially mindful about what goes into their own mouths. While brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are essential, everyday habits can also have a big impact on oral health.
Some items might seem harmless at first glance, but they can actually chip teeth, damage enamel, or even lead to a dental emergency. If you want to keep your smile healthy and strong, here are a few things dentists typically avoid putting in their mouths.
Ice Cubes
Chewing on ice might seem refreshing, especially on a hot day. But dentists tend to steer clear of this habit.
Ice is extremely hard, and biting down on it can easily crack or chip a tooth. Even if you don’t notice damage right away, repeated pressure from chewing ice can weaken enamel over time. For people with dental work like fillings or crowns, chewing ice can also increase the risk of fractures or loosening restorations.
If you like the crunch of ice, it’s better to let it melt in your drink instead of chewing it.
Hard Candy
Hard candies may taste great, but they can pose a couple of risks to your teeth. First, biting down on them can chip or crack enamel. Second, because they dissolve slowly, they expose your teeth to sugar for an extended period.
The longer sugar sits on your teeth, the more time bacteria have to produce acids that contribute to cavities. Dentists generally recommend enjoying sweets in moderation and choosing treats that don’t linger in the mouth for too long.
Popcorn Kernels
Popcorn is a popular snack, but those unpopped kernels at the bottom of the bowl can spell trouble for your teeth.
Biting down on a hard kernel can lead to a cracked tooth or damaged filling. Even the thin husks that sometimes get stuck between teeth can irritate gums or become lodged under the gumline, which may cause discomfort or inflammation.
Dentists usually recommend being mindful when eating popcorn and avoiding those stubborn kernels altogether.
Using Teeth as Tools
One habit dentists almost never practice themselves is using their teeth as tools. It might be tempting to tear open a package, bite a tag off clothing, or hold something in your mouth when your hands are full.
However, teeth aren’t designed for these tasks. Using them this way can lead to chips, fractures, and unnecessary strain on the teeth and jaw. Over time, these habits can even cause wear or structural damage.
Instead, it’s always safer to reach for scissors or the proper tool.
Non-Food Objects
Pens, fingernails, and other non-food items often find their way into people’s mouths without much thought. Chewing on these objects can wear down enamel, introduce bacteria, and increase the risk of small cracks in the teeth.
Many dentists recommend becoming more aware of these habits, especially during times of stress or concentration, when people tend to chew on objects unconsciously.
Replacing the habit with sugar-free gum or simply keeping hands busy can help protect your teeth.
Small habits can make a big difference when it comes to protecting your smile.
About the Practice
Smile Fitness Dental Center provides comprehensive dental care designed to help patients maintain healthy smiles and avoid dental emergencies. Dr. Florento and Dr. Stulic offer preventive care, restorative treatments, and emergency dentistry services to address unexpected dental problems quickly and comfortably. With a focus on patient education and personalized treatment, our practice helps individuals and families protect their oral health for the long term.
Call us at (602) 533-0996 or schedule your appointment online.