5 Things Dentists Tell Patients to Never Put in Their Mouths

Everything that you put in your mouth can affect your teeth and gums, which is why it’s important to be conscious of the positive and negative impacts that certain foods, habits, and items can have on your oral health. Fortunately, with a little guidance from your dentist, it doesn’t have to be a game of “guess and see what happens,” because they know what can harm and what can help your smile. Read on to learn five items that dentists tell their patients to never eat or put in their mouths.

Lemons

Do you love sucking on lemons when you get water from a restaurant? Even though a small slice of lemon may seem harmless, regularly exposing your teeth to the harmful acids in lemons can wear down your enamel, eventually leading to bigger oral health problems like dental sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities.

Other People’s Toothbrushes

Have you had an unexpected sleepover at your friend’s house? Did you forget your toothbrush when you went on a family vacation? While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, and that you can just borrow somebody else’s, your dentist would definitely not recommend that. The bristles on toothbrushes collect bacteria that are unique to your mouth, and cavities can be spread by these bacteria. Instead of borrowing your friend or family member’s toothbrush, go out and buy a new one so you don’t risk an oral infection or cavity!

Your Fingernails

Studies estimate that between 20 and 30 percent of the population bites their nails. This is a habit born out of stress, overstimulation, concern, and a variety of other emotional responses to your environment. However, as harmless of a coping mechanism as this may seem, it’s not good for your oral health. You can transfer bacteria from everything you touch throughout the day to your mouth, increasing your risk of gum infection and dental decay. Plus, you’ll wear-down your teeth over time, causing dental sensitivity.

Pencils or Pens

It’s safe to say that pencils and pens were never made to be chewed on, but despite that, countless people have a habit of nibbling on the erasers, wood, and plastic of these items to help ease their anxiety. Unfortunately, this can put you at-risk for breaking a tooth and wearing down your enamel that protects your mouth.

Hard & Sticky Candies

If you love sucking on jawbreakers or chewing on taffy and caramels, your dentist may recommend finding a new tasty treat to indulge in. With hard candies that you suck on, you’re exposing your teeth to sugar over longer periods of time, which can lead to a higher risk of cavities. With chewy candies like taffy, you could risk damaging a tooth or restoration, like an existing cavity filling or crown.

At the end of the day, you don’t have to completely cut out all of these foods or force yourself to break bad oral habits immediately. It’s all a process, and it’s important to be patient with yourself and be mindful of what you’re doing and how it can impact your smile. By making small changes, like squeezing a stress ball instead of biting your fingernails or pencils, you can help protect your smile and enjoy it for a lifetime.

About the Author

Dr. Gustavo Arrechea is passionate about helping patients who find themselves in oral emergencies get out of pain and restore their smiles. He has completed additional education and is certified in Level 2 sedation. He enjoys working with patients of all ages as well and is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Texas Dental Association. For more helpful tips on how to avoid dental emergencies, visit Daily Smiles Dental’s website or call 214-233-9460.