When it comes to keeping a healthy smile, dentists practice what they preach. Beyond brushing, flossing, and regular checkups, there are certain things they simply never put in their mouths. While it might seem harmless to chew on a pen or open a bottle with your teeth, these habits can lead to chipped teeth, infections, or even emergency dental visits.
Understanding what dentists avoid can help you make smarter choices for your own oral health and prevent unnecessary damage.
Hard Objects That Can Damage Teeth
Dentists know better than anyone how fragile teeth can be. That’s why they never bite or chew on hard objects like ice cubes, pens, pencils, or fingernails. Even though teeth are strong, repeated pressure from hard items can lead to cracks, chips, or fractures.
Using your teeth as tools, like opening packages, tearing tags, or biting your nails, is another common habit that dentists avoid. This can wear down enamel over time and sometimes cause more severe dental issues, like broken fillings or crowns.
Non-Food Items That Could Introduce Germs
Some items pose a risk not because of hardness, but because of germs. Dentists are extremely careful about what touches their mouths to prevent bacterial infections. Common items they avoid include:
- Pens, pencils, or other writing tools
- Toothpicks that aren’t designed for dental use
- Coins, buttons, or other small objects
Even items that seem clean can harbor bacteria, which can lead to infections or gum problems. Dentists understand that your mouth is a gateway to your body, so they treat it with caution.
Sticky or Sugary Substances
While most of us enjoy a sweet treat now and then, dentists are cautious about sticky, sugary foods that linger on teeth. They know that foods like caramel, taffy, or chewing gum with sugar can cling to teeth and accelerate decay if not cleaned properly.
This doesn’t mean dentists never enjoy sweets—they just follow the habit of rinsing or brushing afterward to prevent cavities. The principle applies to you too: enjoy in moderation and maintain good oral hygiene afterward.
Objects That Could Cause Choking
Dentists also avoid putting small, hard objects in their mouths that could pose a choking hazard. Coins, small toys, or buttons might seem harmless, but if accidentally swallowed, they can cause serious injury.
Teaching children to avoid this behavior is particularly important, as young kids are more prone to putting non-food items in their mouths.
Habits to Protect Your Smile
The takeaway is simple: treat your teeth like the valuable tools they are. Avoid chewing hard objects, using teeth as tools, and putting anything in your mouth that isn’t food or a dentist-approved dental product. Following these habits can save you from unnecessary dental visits, pain, and costly repairs.
Being mindful about what enters your mouth is one of the easiest ways to maintain a healthy, lasting smile. Taking small precautions today can protect your teeth for years to come.
About the Practice
UDC of Hammond provides comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages in a friendly, professional environment. Our practice offers preventive, restorative, and emergency dentistry services, with a focus on personalized treatment plans that meet each patient’s unique needs. Led by experienced dentists, the team prioritizes patient education and comfort, helping individuals make informed decisions about their oral health and maintain healthy, confident smiles.
Call us at (219) 933-4900 or schedule your appointment online.