The Hidden Dangers of Using Your Teeth as Tools
At Emergency & Walk-In Dentist Cardiff, we regularly treat patients who’ve damaged their teeth by using them as tools. What seems convenient in the moment often leads to cracked teeth, lost fillings, and painful emergencies. This article reveals the surprising risks of these common habits and how to protect your smile.
Why Your Teeth Aren’t Built for These Tasks
Teeth are designed for chewing food, not as multi-purpose tools. Here’s what happens when you misuse them:
1. Opening Packages and Bottles
The twisting motion can crack teeth or damage existing dental work. We frequently treat patients needing emergency repairs after trying to open something with their teeth.
2. Cutting Thread or Tape
The sawing motion wears down enamel and can lead to costly cosmetic repairs. It also risks cutting your gums.
3. Cracking Nuts or Ice
The extreme pressure can fracture teeth, often requiring dental crowns or even extractions in severe cases.
4. Holding Objects
Keeping nails, pins, or other metal objects in your mouth can chip teeth and introduce harmful bacteria.
Real Consequences We See Daily
Our emergency dental clinic treats these preventable injuries:
- Vertical cracks extending into the root
- Fractured cusps needing crowns
- Dislodged fillings causing pain
- Trauma to gums and soft tissue
- Complete tooth fractures requiring extraction
How to Break the Habit
Protect your teeth with these simple changes:
- Keep scissors and bottle openers handy
- Use nutcrackers instead of your teeth
- Wear a mouthguard during DIY projects
- Get regular dental checkups to catch early damage
Damaged Your Teeth? We Can Help
Our emergency dentists in Cardiff provide same-day repairs for teeth damaged by misuse.
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