You may think that chewing on ice or candy is no big deal, when in fact, you’re gradually wearing down and essentially destroying your teeth! That’s right – destroying. Sometimes it’s the most common, day-to-day “harmless” habits we have that can hurt us the most in the long run. Take a look at these six dental habits and oral health no-nos and make sure you’re not at risk of tarnishing your perfect smile.

1. Stop slurping that soda.

We can understand your cravings for an occasional diet coke – that’s not an issue when it comes to dental hygiene. Soda becomes dangerous if you drink it daily or multiple times a day. The sugar in the beverage turns into acid which sticks to your teeth and over time will deteriorate them.

2. Your teeth are not a tool.

You’re trying to open a package and there’s no knife or scissor close by to rip the duct tape. What’s your first alternative? It better not be your teeth! If you’re guilty of using your choppers, be aware that your teeth are being exposed to unnecessary wear and tear and potential breakage. Make a little trip to the kitchen and grab the appropriate tools to get the job done. Not at home? Your car keys will do the trick.

3. No nail biting.

One simple reason: it’s gross. Think about it. Do you know how many bacteria your hand is exposed to each day? You are constantly subjecting yourself to illness and germs every you put your fingers in your mouth. Even if you’re an avid hand-washer, debris are left and build up in the region between the bottom of your nail and your finger skin. Try to stop this habit that is not only nasty, but is leaving an open door to common colds and other sicknesses.

4. Ice, ice baby…in a cup (not your mouth).

You’re thinking, “It’s just frozen water.” Well, we’re here to tell you that you are absolutely right, but it can be very painful and dangerous to your health if you aren’t careful when using it. Ice is meant to chill your beverages, meats and other cooling purposes – not as a chewing toy. Ice munching is one of the leading causes of chipped or cracked teeth in people. It’s a habit we don’t think twice about, but really should.

5. Grind coffee – not your teeth.

If you turn to teeth grinding when you’re stressed or overwhelmed, try to be conscious of this behavior and find an alternative way to deal with the pressure. Relaxation exercises or meditation sessions are good alternatives. On the other hand, this is a habit that may be uncontrollable for some of us. If you are aware that you grind your teeth at night or while you’re asleep, it would be wise to invest in a mouthgaurd.

6. Candy is not meant for chewing.

Similar to soda, there is a high concentration of sugar in hard candies and cough drops. But in addition, candy is hard and wears down your teeth each time you bite down on it. Even worse, pieces of candy can cling to your teeth and if not brushed or flossed away can create cavities (specifically in your molar region). There really aren’t any pros or ways around this one. Just don’t do it.

So ask yourself, “Do I currently take part in any of the habits mentioned above?” If your answer was yes, and you want to preserve your glowing smile, it’s time to start thinking about weaning yourself off of these routines. It’s not easy stopping a habit from one day to the next, so take your time. If you have a few sodas a day, try cutting one out for the first week and then continue to cut down as time goes on. The key is recognizing your behavior and remaining conscious of them in order to stop yourself before engaging in such activities. Set goals to test yourself, keep a journal, engage in these best practices with a friend you know may have similar habits, tape this list to the wall – whatever motivates you to stop these habits, do it! We have faith in you, now it’s up to you to make your smile last for a lifetime!