When it comes to protecting your teeth, brushing and flossing are only part of the story. Many dental emergencies happen not because of cavities, but because of everyday habits that put unnecessary stress on teeth. From chewing ice to using your teeth as tools, small choices can lead to chips, cracks, and costly repairs.
If you want to keep your smile strong and avoid unexpected trips to the dentist, here are some common things dentists never put in their mouths—and why you shouldn’t either.
Ice: A Hidden Threat in Your Drink
Chewing ice might seem harmless, especially when it’s already in your glass. However, ice is extremely hard and can create tiny fractures in tooth enamel. Over time, these micro-cracks can lead to sensitivity, chips, or even broken teeth.
If you enjoy cold drinks, try letting the ice melt slightly or switching to chilled water to protect your enamel.
Hard Candy: Long-Lasting Sugar Exposure
Hard candies may last longer than other sweets, but that’s part of the problem. As they dissolve slowly, they bathe your teeth in sugar, feeding harmful bacteria that contribute to cavities. Biting down on hard candy can also crack or chip a tooth.
Opt for sugar-free alternatives or enjoy sweets in moderation, followed by rinsing your mouth with water.
Popcorn Kernels: Small but Mighty
Unpopped popcorn kernels are a common culprit behind cracked teeth and damaged dental work. Biting down unexpectedly on a hard kernel can fracture enamel or loosen fillings and crowns.
When enjoying popcorn, chew carefully and discard any hard pieces to avoid surprises.
Using Teeth as Tools
Opening packages, tearing tags, or holding objects with your teeth may seem convenient, but this habit puts excessive pressure on your enamel. Teeth are designed for chewing food—not for gripping plastic or metal.
Keep scissors or proper tools nearby to avoid turning a simple task into a dental emergency.
Sticky and Chewy Foods
Sticky treats like caramels, taffy, and gummy candies cling to tooth surfaces and are difficult to remove with saliva alone. They can pull at fillings or crowns and increase the risk of decay by trapping sugar against the enamel.
If you indulge, brush and floss afterward to remove lingering residue.
Grinding on Non-Food Items
Chewing on pens, fingernails, or bottle caps may happen without thinking, especially during moments of stress or concentration. These habits can wear down enamel, strain jaw muscles, and even lead to cracked teeth.
Replacing the habit with sugar-free gum or a stress-relief technique can help protect your smile.
Why These Habits Matter
Your teeth are strong, but they aren’t indestructible. Avoiding hard, sticky, and non-food items can significantly reduce your risk of chips, fractures, and tooth decay. Small daily choices—like skipping ice chewing or using scissors instead of your teeth—can make a lasting difference in your oral health.
Protecting your smile starts with small, mindful habits.
About the Practice
Dr. Nabeel Ahmed of Donlands Family Dentistry provides comprehensive dental care focused on prevention, patient education, and long-term oral health. Our practice offers services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency dentistry, helping patients address urgent dental concerns quickly and comfortably. We are committed to creating a welcoming environment where patients feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Call us at +1 416-551-5224 or schedule your appointment online.