If you have a dog or small child, you’re probably used to hearing the phrase, “spit that out of your mouth!” However, even adults get the impulse to chew on things they really shouldn’t. Whether you’re a chronic biter or not, keep reading. Resisting the urge to put these five things in your mouth could help you avoid a dental emergency.
#1. Raw Lemons
You might enjoy the sour sensation, but your pearly whites don’t like being exposed to acidic flavors for prolonged periods. Overly acidic foods and beverages can erode your enamel. When this protective surface-layer thins, you’re more vulnerable to dental staining, sensitivity, and bacteria-induced conditions like tooth decay. Instead of sucking on this tart fruit directly, drop lemon juice in your water and drink it with a straw.
#2. Stubborn Bottle Caps
So not everyone has a bottle-opener with them at all times – that’s fine. You’re still better off using almost anything other than your teeth! Prying at metal bottle caps can fracture your tooth right down the middle, in which case you could very well lose it. Plastic caps aren’t much better, as they can cause chronic jaw pain. Stick to making multiple opening attempts with your hands or get a better grip by wrapping your shirt around your palm.
#3. Not Your Mama’s Toothbrush
Don’t use someone else’s toothbrush. You won’t break a tooth, but you will introduce all of their bacteria into your oral biome, along with any germs carrying illness. It’s simply not hygienic. Hold off on brushing for one night, or better yet, visit a grocery store and pick up a new brush!
#4. Cumbersome Keys
Have you ever got to your doorstep, only to shove your keys in your mouth while you fumble with a package or sack of groceries? Think about where your keys have been. In your hands, which were likely very sweaty this time of year. At the bottom of your purse, with discarded candy-wrappers and receipts touched by various people. You might have even let your friend borrow your keys! Key-biting is a one-two punch of bad hygiene and high risk for dental damage.
#5. Satisfying Ice
Crunching ice is satisfying. There’s just something soothing about the texture, or maybe humans really like endangering their teeth for some strange scientific reason. Pretty much any shape of ice cube has the same consistency as a hard piece of candy. In other words, they are unfortunately able to chip, crack, or break teeth.
Some of these habits might be difficult to cut loose. If you have a moment of forgetfulness and come to regret it, don’t be shy about calling your emergency dentist. Accidents are a part of life, and though some can be avoided more than others, your dental team is more worried about your oral health. You can count on them to help you and your teeth!
About the Author
Dr. Mahmoud Homsi earned his dental degree from the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He’s taken several advanced continuing education courses in a variety of specialties, which enables him to assess an oral situation quickly and keenly. If you find yourself in the midst of a dental emergency, Dr. Homsi will know just what to do! To contact his office, call 603-228-0123.