When it comes to keeping your teeth strong and healthy, brushing and flossing are only part of the equation. Your daily habits—especially what you put in your mouth—play an essential role in preventing dental injuries, infections, and long-term damage. Dentists spend their careers helping patients protect their smiles, so they know better than anyone which items can cause harm. If you want to avoid dental emergencies and maintain excellent oral health, here are some things your dentist would never put in their own mouth.
Ice Cubes
Chewing on ice might seem harmless, especially on a hot day, but dentists know it’s one of the quickest ways to crack or chip a tooth. Ice is incredibly hard, and even strong enamel can fracture under the pressure. Sucking on ice is fine, but biting down is a risk dentists don’t take—and neither should you.
Fingernails
Nail biting is a common habit, but it’s rough on your teeth and gums. The repetitive pressure can lead to chips, worn enamel, and even jaw discomfort. Nail biting also transfers bacteria from your hands into your mouth, increasing the risk of infection. Dentists steer clear of this habit for both dental and hygiene reasons.
Hard Candies
While sweet treats are everywhere, dentists know that hard candies are a double threat. Not only are they loaded with sugar that lingers on your teeth, but biting down can easily crack a tooth or damage dental work. Plus, the slow dissolve time gives cavity-causing bacteria plenty of fuel. That’s why hard candy is firmly on the “avoid” list.
Bottle Caps and Packaging
It’s tempting to use your teeth to open a package or twist off a bottle cap when your hands aren’t enough, but dentists know that teeth are not tools. Using them to pry, twist, or tear puts enormous stress on your enamel and can lead to chips, fractures, and even emergencies requiring immediate care. Tools are safer—your teeth are not built for those jobs.
Non-Food Objects
Chewing on pen caps, pencils, straws, or other objects is a habit many people develop without thinking. Dentists avoid this entirely because the pressure and friction can wear down enamel and cause small cracks over time. These objects also carry germs, adding another reason to keep them out of your mouth.
Toothpicks
It may be surprising, but dentists typically avoid using wooden toothpicks. While they can help dislodge food, they can also damage the gums, push debris deeper, or even splinter. Instead, dentists prefer floss or soft dental picks that clean gently without harming sensitive tissues.
Very Sticky Foods
Sticky candies like taffy, gummies, and caramel are notorious for pulling at dental restorations like fillings or crowns. They also cling to the grooves of your teeth, feeding bacteria long after you’ve finished eating. Dentists enjoy sweets in moderation but rarely choose sticky treats that can lead to dental trouble.
Citrus Wedges (to Chew On)
Eating citrus is fine, but chewing directly on lemon or lime wedges exposes your teeth to concentrated acid. Over time, the acid can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity. Dentists avoid chewing citrus for this reason and recommend rinsing with water after eating acidic foods.
Avoiding these habits can go a long way in protecting your smile and preventing unnecessary dental emergencies.
About the Practice
At Prime Time Dentistry, patients receive trusted, compassionate care aimed at protecting long-term oral health. Our team provides comprehensive emergency dentistry services to address urgent concerns quickly and comfortably. If you’ve found yourself in need of dental care, don’t panic. Come see us instead.
Call us at (945) 207-7463 or request an appointment online.
