Dentists spend their careers helping patients protect their teeth and gums, so it’s no surprise they’re careful about what they eat and drink. While enjoying your favorite treats in moderation is perfectly fine, there are certain habits and foods dentists tend to avoid to protect their oral health. Here are 4 things your dentist would think twice about putting in their mouth.
1. Ice
Chewing on ice might seem harmless—it’s just frozen water, after all—but it can be surprisingly damaging. Ice is extremely hard and can easily chip or crack your teeth, especially if you already have weakened enamel or dental work.
Repeated ice chewing can lead to small fractures that worsen over time, potentially requiring treatments like crowns or fillings. Dentists know that protecting enamel is key to preventing issues like tooth damage, so they steer clear of this common habit.
2. Sticky, Sugary Candy
Caramels, taffy, and gummy candies are some of the worst offenders when it comes to oral health. These treats stick to the surfaces of your teeth and linger long after you’ve finished eating.
The longer sugar stays on your teeth, the more time bacteria have to produce acids that lead to tooth decay. Sticky candies can also pull at dental work like fillings or crowns, potentially loosening them.
Dentists may enjoy sweets occasionally, but they’re more likely to choose options that don’t cling to their teeth.
3. Sugary and Acidic Drinks
Sodas, sports drinks, and even some fruit juices are loaded with sugar and acids that can erode tooth enamel. Frequent exposure to these beverages weakens enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity.
Acidic drinks can also contribute to enamel erosion, which is irreversible. Dentists often recommend limiting these drinks or using a straw to reduce contact with teeth, and they usually follow that advice themselves.
Water remains the best choice for hydration and oral health.
4. Using Teeth as Tools
While not a food, this is a habit dentists avoid at all costs. Using your teeth to open packages, tear tags, or bite nails can put excessive stress on them.
This kind of misuse can lead to chips, cracks, or even fractures that require extensive repair. Dentists understand that teeth are meant for chewing food—not acting as scissors or bottle openers.
Making Smarter Choices
The goal isn’t to eliminate all treats or habits, but to be mindful of how they affect your teeth. Moderation, proper oral hygiene, and regular dental visits go a long way in protecting your smile.
Learn from the Experts
If dentists avoid these common pitfalls, it’s worth considering why. Their daily experience with dental problems gives them insight into what causes damage and how to prevent it.
By avoiding hard, sticky, sugary, and damaging habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of dental issues. Small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference over time. Take a cue from your dentist; your teeth will thank you for it.
About the Practice
Are you experiencing a dental emergency? At Avion Dental & Orthodontics, we have same-day appointments open for urgent dental care to see to your needs immediately. We also offer nitrous oxide sedation to help soothe your nerves, as well as competitive pricing on all dental services. If you’re in pain, don’t delay – book online or call our Dallas office at (972) 807-9887.