So, I have always been nervous about going to the dentist, but Dr. Paul Lee made the experience very pleasant and second to none. I was treated by friendly staff when I arrived, and Dr. Paul Lee explained everything he was about to do and made me felt very comfortable before and during the procedure. I felt no pain and discomfort and I left the office with a better smile and able to enjoy eating comfortably again. Highly recommended it!
The holiday season brings plenty of joy, but it also brings a surprising number of dental emergencies. Between wrapping gifts, opening packages, and crunching festive treats, many people use their teeth for things they were never designed to do. Unfortunately, those split-second decisions can lead to cracks, chips, or even broken dental work.
Your teeth may be strong, but they’re not indestructible. And they’re definitely not tools. As you celebrate the season, here are five common holiday habits to avoid, plus safer alternatives that will keep your smile intact well into the new year.
1. Tearing Open Packages with Your Teeth
When tape won’t budge or scissors are out of reach, it’s tempting to use your teeth to rip open a stubborn box or bag. But using your teeth like a utility knife can create tiny fractures in the enamel or worse, crack a tooth entirely.
What to do instead: Keep scissors or a letter opener handy while wrapping or unwrapping. If you’re mailing gifts, pre-cut tape strips to avoid temptation on the receiving end.
2. Using Your Teeth as a Nutcracker
Cracking nuts in their shells might seem nostalgic or even fun at a holiday party, but your teeth weren’t built for the job. Biting down on hard shells can chip teeth, damage fillings or crowns, and even irritate the jaw.
What to do instead: Use an actual nutcracker or stick with pre-shelled options. Your enamel will thank you.
3. Chewing on Ice from Your Drink
Whether it’s leftover ice from your eggnog or sparkling cider, crunching ice is a common habit, especially during social events. But that satisfying crunch can wear down enamel and cause small cracks that grow over time.
What to do instead: Sip cold drinks through a straw if you’re tempted to chew ice, or ask for drinks without it. If you like that crunch, try cucumber slices or crisp apples instead.
4. Holding Items in Your Mouth While Multitasking
From holding tape while wrapping to gripping a hairpin while getting ready for a party, the mouth often becomes an extra hand during the holidays. But holding objects between your teeth puts unnecessary pressure on them and increases the risk of injury if you trip, turn suddenly, or bite down by mistake.
What to do instead: Slow down and set things down when needed. It might feel like it takes more time, but it’s much quicker than repairing a chipped tooth.
5. Biting Fingernails During Holiday Stress
Between travel, family events, and year-end obligations, the holidays can be stressful—and that often leads to nail-biting. Unfortunately, this habit can wear down your front teeth and introduce bacteria into your mouth.
What to do instead: Keep nails trimmed short and try using a fidget tool or stress ball to redirect the habit. If stress is high, take short breaks to breathe, stretch, or decompress away from the crowd.
The holidays are a time to celebrate, not make an emergency trip to the dentist. By being mindful of these common habits, you can keep your teeth strong, avoid unnecessary damage, and enjoy every moment without worry.
Had a dental mishap already? We’re here to help, even during the busiest time of year.
Call Paul Lee, DDS at 713-677-2011 for an appointment in Houston, TX. You can also schedule online.