Introduction
You brush twice a day, floss regularly, and never miss a dental checkup—great! But what if there are everyday habits sabotaging your smile without you realizing it?
At MVP Dental in Farmington, Utah, we often see patients with worn enamel, chipped teeth, or gum irritation—and they’re surprised to learn that the damage didn’t come from sugar or skipping cleanings. In fact, it came from things they do every day.
If you’re committed to keeping your smile healthy for life, here are 5 habits that may be damaging your teeth, and what to do instead.
1. Chewing Ice
Why it’s harmful:
Chewing ice may seem harmless—it’s just frozen water, right? But ice is incredibly hard, and biting down on it can lead to:
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Cracks or chips in your enamel
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Broken crowns or fillings
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Jaw stress or TMJ flare-ups
What to do instead:
If you crave ice often, you might be low in iron (a condition called pagophagia). Talk to your doctor, and switch to crushed ice or chilled drinks without chewing.
2. Using Your Teeth as Tools
Why it’s harmful:
We’ve all done it—ripped open a package, held bobby pins, or even popped off a bottle cap with our teeth. But using your teeth like tools creates tiny stress fractures that build up over time and lead to:
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Chipped or broken teeth
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Premature dental wear
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Gum injury
What to do instead:
Keep scissors, a bottle opener, or your actual tools nearby. Your teeth are designed for eating and smiling—not multitasking.
3. Sipping Sugary or Acidic Drinks All Day
Why it’s harmful:
When you sip on soda, sports drinks, or even coffee throughout the day, you expose your teeth to a constant bath of sugar and acid. This weakens enamel and feeds the bacteria that cause cavities.
The damage includes:
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Erosion of enamel
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Staining and discoloration
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Increased risk of cavities, especially near the gumline
What to do instead:
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Drink sugary or acidic drinks with meals rather than sipping all day
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Use a straw to limit contact with teeth
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Rinse your mouth with water after drinking
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Stick to water between meals—it’s best for your teeth and your whole body
5. Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth (Especially at Night)
Why it’s harmful:
Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) often happens during sleep, so you may not even know you’re doing it—until the symptoms appear:
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Flattened, worn teeth
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Jaw pain or tension
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Morning headaches
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Cracked fillings or crowns
What to do instead:
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Schedule a dental evaluation if you notice symptoms
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MVP Dental can fit you with a custom night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep
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Manage stress with mindfulness or jaw exercises if daytime clenching is a factor
Bonus Habits to Watch Out For:
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Biting your nails (can chip teeth and introduce bacteria)
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Snacking frequently (constant eating = constant acid attacks)
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Skipping flossing (leads to decay between teeth, even with perfect brushing)
Protecting Your Smile Is About More Than Brushing
Even with excellent oral hygiene, everyday behaviors can silently damage your smile. The good news? Once you know what to avoid, it’s easy to adjust your habits and protect your teeth for the long haul.
At MVP Dental, we’re not just here to clean and treat—we’re here to educate and empower. If you’re experiencing sensitivity, chipped teeth, or gum changes, schedule a visit and let’s make sure these daily habits aren’t harming your long-term oral health.
Conclusion
You only get one set of permanent teeth—so protect them well. By becoming aware of these five common habits and replacing them with smarter choices, you’re taking a big step toward a stronger, healthier smile.
Have questions about your dental routine or signs of enamel wear?
Contact MVP Dental today to schedule a personalized consultation—we’re here to keep your smile looking and feeling great at every stage of life.