5 Sneaky Items That Can Damage Your Smile

First and foremost, at My Rivertown Dentist, we always remind our patients (not that you really need it) that there’s big trouble for your teeth if you consume too much sugar. Unfortunately, it’s found in so many of the foods and beverages stocked in every supermarket aisle. However, did you know that there are some other damage-causing items also on the shelves that you might consider to be harmful to your smile? Check them out to learn more:

1. Snacks – More specifically, constant snacking. The more snacks you consistently consume throughout the day means there’s more opportunity for food particles to hang around and cause potential problems such as cavities and decay.
2. Cough Drops – Yes, those delicious drops that soothe your cough or sore throat are also made of mainly sugar. While your Rivertown dentist would never tell you not to use cough drops when you’re feeling ill, remember to brush and remove any leftover sugar clinging to your teeth.
3. Sports Drinks – When you’ve been working out or playing sports, sometimes you need a nice cold sports drink for some electrolyte replenishment. The next time you go to grab one, turn it around and check out the ingredients. Sugar is one of them, and some drinks contain a very high amount of it. 
4. Ice – While you might not see these chilly cubes as being bad for you (because, after all, it’s just frozen water), there’s more to this story than one might think. It’s the icy texture that makes it so fun to crunch and chew solid ice cubes. But one bad bite can lead to a tooth that’s broken, chipped, or cracked. 
5. Pencils – While we know most people don’t include pencils in their diet, we do tend to put them in our mouths — the same as fingernails or pens. These objects can damage teeth just as much as ice can. So it’s a good idea to keep them away from your mouth at all times. (Try chewing sugar-free gum instead!)

It’s also a good reminder not to use your teeth as tools. Don’t rip open that plastic or try to twist off that bottle cap! It can damage your teeth in more ways than one. Don’t forget to brush and floss every day and schedule your checkup so that you’re seeing us twice each year. These visits allow us to detect any concerns like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer early when they’re still easily treatable. From general dentistry to one-of-a-sleep apnea assessment in adults and kids, My Rivertown Dentist has your oral health covered that truly spans from head to toe. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Ashley Lee and her partnership with The Institute for Craniofacial Medicine, we can even see beyond routine smile care for our patients using special oral appliances created by Vivos Therapeutics to help guide jaw development. 

Talk to us and learn more about your oral health options at My Rivertown Dentist! We make scheduling an appointment easy and convenient. 

About The Author

Dr. Ashley Lee

Dr. Ashley Lee is certified in oral sedation and is a designated qualified dentist for the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. She has pursued advanced training in the treatment of patients with significant dental issues, taking a special interest in the prevention of oral-systemic diseases. Dr. Lee is a member of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health, American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, American Dental Association, Academy for General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Facial Esthetics.

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