Dentists know better than anyone how important it is to protect teeth and gums from harmful habits and substances. With years of training and experience, they’ve seen firsthand the consequences of poor oral choices and they know exactly what to avoid to keep their own smiles in top shape. If you’ve ever wondered what your dentist steers clear of, here are 7 things they would never put in their mouth (and why you shouldn’t either).
1. Ice Cubes
It may seem harmless to crunch on ice, but dentists know it’s one of the quickest ways to chip or crack a tooth. Ice is extremely hard, and biting down on it can weaken enamel, damage dental work, or even cause tiny fractures that worsen over time. Dentists avoid chewing ice to protect their teeth from unnecessary wear and tear.
2. Sugary Sodas and Sports Drinks
Dentists are fully aware of how sugar and acid work together to damage enamel. Sodas and many sports drinks bathe teeth in sugar and acid, creating the perfect environment for cavities. Even diet sodas, which may be sugar-free, are highly acidic and can erode enamel. Dentists know that water is the best choice for hydration and they stick to it.
3. Sticky, Chewy Candies
Caramels, gummy bears, and taffy are some of the worst foods for teeth. They cling to enamel, settle into crevices, and feed cavity-causing bacteria long after the candy is gone. They’re also notorious for pulling out fillings or damaging dental work. Dentists avoid sticky candies because they know just how destructive they can be.
4. Hard Candy
Similar to ice, hard candies are risky to bite down on. Even if you don’t chew them, they bathe your teeth in sugar as they dissolve, increasing your risk of decay. Dentists skip hard candy altogether—they’d rather save their enamel than risk a painful emergency.
5. Bottles, Pens, and Other Non-Food Items
Many people absentmindedly chew on pen caps or use their teeth to open packages, but dentists know this is a recipe for disaster. Using teeth as tools can lead to chips, cracks, or worn-down edges. Dentists make a conscious effort never to put anything in their mouth that isn’t food.
6. Citrus Snacks Without Rinsing
While citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are healthy, dentists are careful with how they consume them. The acid in citrus can erode enamel if teeth aren’t rinsed afterward. Dentists often eat acidic foods in moderation and drink water right after to protect their smile.
7. Tobacco Products
It’s no secret that smoking or chewing tobacco is harmful, but dentists see the effects every day: stained teeth, gum disease, and even oral cancer. For that reason, you’ll never catch a dentist putting tobacco in their mouth—they know the risks are far too high.
Your dentist’s habits are rooted in years of experience seeing what damages teeth and gums. By avoiding ice, sugary and acidic drinks, sticky candies, hard foods, non-food items, and tobacco, they protect their smiles from problems they treat in patients daily. Following their lead can help you keep your own teeth strong, healthy, and problem-free.
About the Author
A native of Tucson, Dr. Alison Fitzgerald has nearly 15 years of experience practicing dentistry! She is a graduate of the Creighton School of Dentistry and sought out the best teaching centers in the country for ongoing education, including Partners in Synergy, the Kois Center, Progressive Orthodontics, and the American Orthodontic Society. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, Dr. Fitzgerald’s experience and training can be trusted to provide you with efficient, compassionate care. Head on over to our website to schedule an appointment or call us at (520) 338-2980.