Brushing and flossing are essential for a healthy smile, but protecting your teeth goes beyond your daily routine. Many dental emergencies and long-term oral health issues can be traced back to habits your dentist would never recommend or practice themselves.
If you want to avoid unnecessary damage to your teeth, here are a few things your dentist would never let near their teeth.
Ice Cubes
Chewing on ice may seem harmless, but it can easily lead to cracked or chipped teeth. The cold temperature also makes teeth more brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. Dentists know it’s best to let ice melt in your drink rather than chew on it, no matter how tempting it might be.
Bottle Caps and Packages
Using your teeth to open bottles or tear open packaging might save a few seconds, but it can cost you a lot in dental repairs. Your teeth are not tools, and using them as such can lead to chips, cracks, or even dislodged dental work. Always use the proper tools instead of risking your smile.
Fingernails
Nail-biting is a common habit, but dentists know how damaging it can be to your teeth and gums. This habit can wear down your enamel, chip your teeth, and even introduce harmful bacteria into your mouth, increasing your risk of infection and gum disease.
Hard Candies
While dentists encourage enjoying treats in moderation, they also know that hard candies can linger in your mouth and bathe your teeth in sugar, feeding harmful bacteria. Biting down on hard candy can also result in a cracked tooth or damaged dental work. If you want something sweet, soft treats that don’t stick to your teeth are a safer choice.
Lemon Slices
While adding lemon to your water is fine, sucking on lemon slices can expose your teeth to high levels of acid, which can erode enamel over time. Weakened enamel increases sensitivity and makes your teeth more vulnerable to decay. If you enjoy lemon in your drinks, use a straw to limit contact with your teeth.
Non-Food Objects
Many people absentmindedly chew on pens, pencils, or other objects when concentrating. Dentists avoid this habit because it can cause micro-fractures in your teeth, leading to chips and wear over time. If you need something to fidget with, opt for a stress ball instead of chewing on objects that don’t belong in your mouth.
Tools for Preventing Damage
Avoiding these habits can go a long way toward protecting your teeth and preventing dental emergencies. Combine this with regular brushing, flossing, and routine checkups, and you’ll have a strong foundation for long-term oral health.
Taking small steps to protect your teeth every day can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
About the Practice
Dr. Parker and the team at Marshall Denture & Dental Clinic provide top tier care to patients in the Marshall, TX, community. Great dental hygiene begins with careful preventive care. Dr. Parker is here to guide you through every step of your dental wellness journey through routine checkups to complex procedures.
Call us at (903) 935-6351 or request an appointment online.