Many everyday habits seem harmless. Until they start affecting your teeth, that is.
Here at Laguna Springs Dental, Dr. Mohamad Taisir Albik and our team often encounter preventable dental issues stemming from routine behaviors patients don’t even think about, let alone realize are harmful. Fortunately, understanding these habits can help you take simple steps to protect your smile and avoid unnecessary treatment.
1. Using Your Teeth as Tools
Opening packages, tearing tape, or biting tags puts tremendous pressure on your enamel. This can lead to chips, cracks, and premature wear.
2. Snacking All Day
Frequent grazing continually exposes your teeth to acids, increasing your risk of cavities. Even “healthy” snacks like dried fruit can be high in sugar and surprisingly damaging.
3. Chewing Ice or Hard Objects
Chomping down on ice, pens, fingernails, and similar items can fracture teeth or break dental work. Your enamel isn’t designed for that level of repeated force against such hard items.
4. Grinding or Clenching Without Realizing It
Stress-related grinding (bruxism) is one of the most common hidden causes of tooth wear. Over time, it can create sensitivity, headaches, and even fractures. If you suffer from bruxism, a nightguard may help protect your teeth from damage.
5. Sipping Sugary or Acidic Drinks Slowly
Nursing sodas, energy drinks, or even sparkling water throughout the day exposes teeth to constant acidity, which erodes enamel and speeds up decay.
The good news is that most of these habits can be corrected with simple adjustments. Regular checkups allow Dr. Albik to spot early signs of wear, recommend protective solutions, and help you maintain long-term oral health.
Protective, Patient-Focused Dental Care in Elk Grove, CA
If you’re in Elk Grove and want to prevent hidden habits from damaging your teeth, contact Dr. Albik and the dedicated Laguna Springs Dental team to schedule an appointment.