Personal Care
9 Things Dentists Would Never Do To Their Teeth — And Neither Should You
Your smile says a lot about you, and maintaining it takes more than just brushing twice a day. But have you ever wondered what dentists actually avoid when it comes to their own dental health? As it turns out, the people who spend their days fixing teeth have a strict list of personal “no-go” habits they stay away from — and for good reason.
Let’s explore the top 9 things dentists would never do to their own teeth, and what you can learn from their expert advice.
🚫 1. Dentists Never Use Their Teeth as Tools
From opening plastic packaging to ripping tape, many people use their teeth as a convenient backup tool — but that’s a shortcut dentists strongly warn against. Using your teeth this way can cause chipping, cracking, or even breakage, especially on your front incisors.
🦷 “Your teeth weren’t made to open bottles or plastic seals. That’s what scissors are for,” says Dr. Danny Snyder, DDS.
What to do instead: Always reach for proper tools. Avoid putting unnecessary pressure on your teeth that could lead to long-term damage.
🍿 2. Dentists Don’t Bite Down on Hard Foods Like Ice or Popcorn Kernels
Chewing on hard foods might feel satisfying, but it’s a fast track to cracked enamel and broken molars. Ice, unpopped popcorn kernels, and hard candies are among the most dangerous.
Dentist-approved advice:
Avoid crunching down on anything that doesn’t easily break apart in your hand. It’s not worth a fractured tooth or an emergency root canal.
🥤 3. They Avoid Constantly Sipping Sugary or Acidic Drinks
That leisurely iced coffee you sip all morning or the sports drink during workouts? Bad news for your teeth. Continuous sipping creates a prolonged acidic environment in your mouth, which wears down enamel and fuels cavities.
Tip from the pros: If you do drink sugary beverages, try to consume them in one sitting instead of nursing them over hours — and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
📏 4. They Never Skip Flossing (Even If They Brush Religiously)
Many people assume brushing alone is enough — but dentists know better. Flossing reaches up to 35% of the tooth surface that brushing simply can’t access.
🪥 “Flossing is like cleaning between the couch cushions — the stuff you miss can cause real problems later,” says Dr. Emily Ford, DDS.
Build the habit: Floss at least once daily. Consider using a water flosser if you struggle with traditional string floss.
😬 5. They Don’t Ignore Tooth Pain or Bleeding Gums
Dentists know that minor dental discomfort can be a sign of something much bigger — like infection, inflammation, or decay.
If you’re noticing sensitivity to temperature, pain when chewing, or gums that bleed regularly, don’t brush it off. These are early red flags your body is using to alert you.
Take action early: Addressing problems when they’re small saves you money, pain, and time later on.
🧃 6. They Avoid Brushing Immediately After Acidic Meals or Drinks
Brushing right after a glass of orange juice or a vinegar-heavy salad can actually damage your enamel — not protect it.
Why? Acids soften the enamel temporarily. Brushing during this window can cause erosion.
Dentist’s tip: Wait at least 30 minutes after consuming anything acidic before brushing. Rinse with water or chew sugar-free gum in the meantime to neutralize acid.
🧼 7. They Don’t Use Abrasive DIY Whitening Hacks
From baking soda to charcoal powder, DIY tooth whitening trends may promise pearly whites — but they can come with irreversible damage.
⚠️ “You can’t ‘scrub’ your teeth white without also scrubbing away enamel,” warns Dr. Lina Torres, DDS.
What to do instead: Stick with dentist-approved whitening products or get a professional treatment to safely brighten your smile.
🪥 8. They Don’t Use Hard-Bristled Toothbrushes
Hard bristles may feel like they’re doing a better job, but they’re harsh on enamel and gum tissue. Over time, they can cause recession and sensitivity.
Best practice: Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle, circular motions. An electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor is a great investment.
🕒 9. They Never Miss Regular Dental Check-Ups
Even dentists need dentists! Regular cleanings and exams are non-negotiable for maintaining oral health.
Skipping appointments can allow hidden issues — like cavities under fillings or early gum disease — to go unnoticed until they become major problems.
Golden rule: See your dentist at least every 6 months for a professional cleaning and oral exam.
🦷 Final Thoughts: Protect Your Smile Like a Pro
Dentists have a front-row seat to what not to do when it comes to dental care. By avoiding these common habits and embracing smarter oral hygiene routines, you’ll preserve your smile for years to come.
Remember: A little prevention today means fewer dental bills, less discomfort, and healthier teeth tomorrow.