5 Bad Habits You May Not Realize Hurt Your Teeth

You brush, you floss, you visit your dentist regularly, and yet, something still feels off. The truth is, some everyday habits can quietly hurt your teeth without causing immediate pain or warning signs. Over time, these small actions add up, leading to wear, sensitivity, and even long-term dental problems.

The good news? With a little awareness, you can avoid unnecessary damage and protect your smile more effectively. Here are five surprising things that might be working against your teeth and what you can do instead.

1. Chewing Ice

It may seem harmless, especially after finishing a drink, but chewing on ice puts your teeth under extreme pressure. Enamel may be hard, but it’s not invincible. Ice can create tiny cracks in the tooth’s surface or even chip fillings and crowns.

If you’re tempted to chew ice regularly, try switching to crushed ice or simply sipping chilled water. And if the urge feels constant, it might be worth checking for signs of iron deficiency or stress-related habits that deserve attention.

2. Using Your Teeth as Tools

Opening a package, tearing off a tag, or even holding something “just for a second”—your teeth weren’t designed for these jobs. Using them as tools increases your risk of cracks, chips, and strain on your jaw joints.

Keep scissors, bottle openers, and other basic tools nearby to resist the habit. A small moment of convenience isn’t worth the long-term damage to your smile.

3. Clenching or Grinding (Especially at Night)

Stress shows up in the body in different ways, and for many people, it lands squarely in the jaw. Grinding or clenching your teeth (often during sleep) wears down enamel, strains your jaw, and may lead to cracked teeth over time.

You may not notice you’re doing it, but signs include morning headaches, jaw tension, or flattened teeth. If any of these sound familiar, talk to your dentist about a nightguard to help protect your bite.

4. Snacking Too Frequently

It’s not just what you eat, it’s how often. Frequent snacking, even on healthy foods, keeps your teeth under a constant acid attack from leftover particles and sugar. The more often you eat, the less time your saliva has to neutralize and cleanse your mouth.

Try to limit snacks to specific times of day, and rinse with water afterward when brushing isn’t an option. Giving your mouth breaks between meals can make a big difference in preventing decay.

5. Brushing Too Hard

While enthusiasm for brushing is a good thing, too much pressure can wear down enamel and irritate your gums. Over time, this can lead to sensitivity and gum recession.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions. Let the brush and fluoride toothpaste do the work. Force isn’t necessary for a thorough clean.

We’re here to help. Book your next checkup and let’s make sure your everyday habits support your smile and won’t hurt your teeth.

Call Desert Palm Dentistry at (623) 288 3819 (Glendale) (602) 693 1337 (Phoenix) for an appointment. You can also make an appointment online.