10 Everyday Habits That Are Ruining Your Teeth (And How to Fix Them)
26/09/2025
We all know brushing and flossing are important—but what about the daily habits we don’t even realise are harming our teeth?
At Silk Dental in Macclesfield, we’ve seen it all. Here are 10 common habits that could be doing more damage than you think:
- Chewing Ice: It may seem harmless, but ice can cause micro-cracks in enamel. Fix: Sip cold drinks instead and chew sugar-free gum if you need something.
- Nail Biting: This puts pressure on your teeth and can cause chips or misalignment. Fix: Try a bitter-tasting polish or keep nails short.
- Using Teeth as Tools: Tearing open packages or biting tags can weaken teeth. Fix: Keep scissors or tools handy.
- Brushing Too Hard: Aggressive brushing erodes enamel and irritates gums. Fix: Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle circular motions.
- Constant Snacking: Frequent eating fuels acid attacks. Fix: Stick to set meal times and drink water between meals.
- Grinding Teeth: Often done during sleep, this can flatten or chip teeth. Fix: A custom nightguard can help—ask our team about options.
- Sipping Sugary Drinks: Constant exposure to sugar and acid wears teeth down. Fix: Use a straw and drink water afterward.
- Skipping Dental Appointments: Hidden issues can worsen fast. Fix: Routine check-ups are essential—even if nothing hurts.
- Smoking: Stains teeth, increases gum disease risk, and slows healing. Fix: We offer support for patients looking to quit.
- DIY Whitening: TikTok trends can cause serious damage. Fix: Ask us about safe, professional whitening options.
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