You brush. You floss. You avoid sugary snacks.
But here’s the catch: some of the most damaging habits for your teeth don’t involve candy or skipping hygiene at all. They’re part of your daily routine and things you may not even think about. Over time, these small behaviors can wear down enamel, irritate gums, or even cause bigger dental issues.
At Atlantic Dental Group in Wilmington, NC, we see these problems every day. The good news? With a few easy changes, you can protect your smile and prevent costly dental work down the road. Here are seven everyday habits that may be sneaking up on your oral health.
That fizzy drink might feel like a healthier alternative to soda, but even unflavored sparkling water is slightly acidic. When you sip on it constantly, your teeth stay in an acidic environment that can erode enamel over time.
What you can do: Enjoy sparkling water in moderation, rinse with plain water between sips, and don’t swish or hold it in your mouth.
The American Dental Association explains how even sugar-free acidic drinks can still wear away enamel.
From ripping open packages to chewing on pen caps, many people treat their teeth like pocket tools. The problem? Teeth aren’t designed for that kind of force. Using them this way can chip enamel, damage restorations, or even crack a tooth.
What you can do: Keep small scissors or a bottle opener nearby. Think of your teeth as irreplaceable—not as tools.
It’s not just candy that wears on your teeth. Frequent snacking, even on dried fruits, crackers, or granola can keep your mouth in a cycle of acid attacks. Each time you eat, acids form as bacteria break down particles on your teeth. Saliva needs time to neutralize those acids.
What you can do: Stick to set snack times, drink water to flush away debris, and avoid grazing throughout the day.
See how regular checkups and cleanings help Wilmington patients prevent enamel erosion and gum problems.
Brushing harder doesn’t mean brushing better. In fact, scrubbing with a heavy hand or using a hard-bristle toothbrush can actually wear down enamel and irritate gums, leading to sensitivity and gum recession.
What you can do: Use a soft-bristle brush, hold it at a 45-degree angle, and use gentle circular motions. If you’re worried about technique, ask your dentist for a quick demo at your next visit.
The ADA’s MouthHealthy resource offers excellent brushing tips to keep your teeth clean without harming them.
Chewing ice may seem harmless—it’s just water, right? But the hard texture and cold temperature can cause micro-cracks in enamel. Over time, this weakens teeth and may damage fillings or crowns.
What you can do: Stick to chilled drinks and skip the crunch. If you crave chewing something, try sugar-free gum instead.
Grinding or clenching your teeth at night is called bruxism and is more common than many people realize. Because it happens while you sleep, you may not notice until damage is already done. Bruxism can cause:
What you can do: If you wake up with jaw tension, talk to your dentist. A custom night guard can protect your teeth from grinding damage.
See how we restore teeth damaged by grinding, wear, or chipping with dental implants.
Even the most diligent brushers can’t catch every issue on their own. Many oral health problems like cavities, gum disease, and even early oral cancer develop silently, without pain or obvious signs.
What you can do: Schedule exams every six months. Regular visits allow your dentist to spot problems early, when treatment is easier and less invasive.
Book your next dental checkup in Wilmington today.
Not if you drink it occasionally. The problem comes with constant sipping, which prolongs acid exposure.
Enamel doesn’t regrow, but fluoride treatments and preventive care can help strengthen teeth and prevent further erosion.
Yes, most have timers and pressure sensors to guide gentle brushing and prevent over-brushing.
Even the most committed brushers can unknowingly harm their teeth through everyday habits. The good news is that small changes like switching to a softer brush, wearing a night guard, or cutting back on acidic drinks can make a big difference in your long-term oral health.
At Atlantic Dental in Wilmington, NC, we focus on preventive dentistry and cosmetic dentistry to keep your smile healthy, confident, and strong. Whether it’s time for a checkup or you’re concerned about enamel damage, we’re here to help.
Schedule your appointment and take the first step toward healthier habits and a brighter smile.