Your Dentist Would Never Put These Items in Their Mouth – And Neither Should You!

When you were a kid, you might’ve been used to having adults tell you to keep certain things out of your mouth. That advice doesn’t stop being relevant as you age, though! Some objects are simply too hard on your teeth and could cause dental damage if you’re not careful.

Keep reading to learn what types of things are better left alone so you can avoid a dental emergency visit.

Bottle Caps

Doesn’t matter if they’re made out of metal, plastic, or pop tabs, any sort of bottlecap could definitely put a dent or two in your smile. Plus, when you try to unscrew a bottlecap with your teeth, you’re likely twisting your mouth and clenching down in a way that puts excess strain on your jaw. Doing this on the regular could result in you putting your savings towards TMJ therapy.

Amazon Packaging

Getting packages from Amazon – or any shipping service, for that matter – is exciting, but take a step back and calm down before you tear into the tape and cardboard. Boxes that are transported via giant truck are specifically wrapped to stay shut, and often have extra-sticky adhesives. You won’t have much luck opening them with your teeth, and you’ll likely just end up with a sore mouth.

Pens, Pencils, or Paintbrushes

If you’re rushing on a project, it can be tempting to gnaw on the writing device that’s conveniently sitting in the palm of your hand. Like the two items listed before them, though, pens, pencils, paintbrushes, and other such tools are simply too tough for your pearly whites. Sugar-free gum is a much better choice for nervous chewers, and can help clean your teeth, too!

Fingernails

Another common habit of “nervous Nelly’s” is nail biting. Not many people realize this, but fingernails are actually composed of some rock-solid organic materials, such as keratin. Keratin, by the way, is also what makes up a horse’s hooves! Needless to say, you really shouldn’t be chomping down on something that can support 930 pounds of equestrian muscle.

There are plenty of objects that could break or damage your pearly whites if you bite into them, and this list doesn’t even mention all of them. A good rule of thumb is to use your teeth for chewing your food, and not much else. Be careful with your smile, and you’ll have a much better chance of avoiding dental emergencies!

About the Practice

Gerome & Patrice Family Dentistry is proud to have been chosen by Cincinnati as a “Top Dentist” of 2022. We care deeply for our patients and their smiles and are honored to have received this distinction. If you need emergency dental care, you can trust us to provide prompt treatment! To contact our office, call 513-402-0165.